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vtcmtry. 



CHEAP EDITION. 



Carefully Corrected and Revised to Date, f- ^'■ 



GIBSON BROTHERS, PRIN 






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WASHINGTON 



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VICINITY 



CHEAP EDITION. 

Cnrcfiilly Corrected and Revised to 1893. 



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CONTENTS. Wwhinfi 



'^tuaiM 



PAGE. 

Agricultural Department 47 

Alexandria 60 

Analostan Island 59 

Aqueduct 58 

Arlington 62 

Asylum, Washington 47 

Avenues, The 31 

B. & P. R.R. Station 55 

Barracks, Washington 38 

" Marine 40 

Bartholdi Fountain 28 

Benevolent Institutions. 52 

Botanical Garden^ 27 

British Legation 30 

Bureau of Education 44 

Bureau of Engraving & Printing.. 28 

Cabin John Bridge 58 

Capitol, 1827 3 

" East Front 4 

Capitol, The 9 

Cemeteries 59 

Churches 54 

Coast Survey 36 

Columbia Hospital for Women 46. 

Columbian University 52 

Columbia Institution for the Deaf 46 

Convent of Visitation 60 

Corcoran Gallery of Art 51 

Court House, U. S 46 

Department of Justice 46 

District of Columbia 5 

Executive Mansion 33 

Falls of the Potomac 58 

Ford's Theatre 38 

Fort Myer 64 

Georgetown 59 

Genius of America 13 

Justice and Hope 13 

Gonzaga College 52 

Government Hospital for Insane... 44 

Government Printing Office 47 

Grand Stairway 10 

Hotels 53 

Howard University 52 

House of Representatives 23 

Interior Department 41 

Jai U. S 47 



PAGS. 

Library of Congress 24 

Louise Home 53 

Markets 54 

Monuments, Statues, &c.: 

Washington Monument 49 

Greenough's Washington 11 

Equestrian Statue Washington.. 30 

Garfield Statue 50 

Jackson " 34 

Emancipation Statue 31 

Thomas " 30 

Scott " 29 

McPherson " 29 

Rawlings " 30 

Farragut " 29 

Dupont " 30 

Greene " 31 

Luther " 30 

Peace Monument 11 

Lincoln , 21, 63 

Mount Vernon 60 

Museum, Army Medical 38 

" National 48 

Navy Department 39 

Navy Yard 40 

Nurseries, Government., 28 

Observatory, National 40 

Patent Office 41 

Plan of the city, 9 

Post-Office, General 40 

Public Schools...'. '57 

Railroad St.-itions 54 

Reform S'chool 46 

Reservations 28 

Rich. & Danville R.R. Headq'rs 43 

Rock Creek Church 59 

Senate, &c 25 

Smithsonian Institution 48 

Soldiers' Home 38 

Squares 29 

State Department 34 

Statuary Hall 22 

Supreme Court 24 

Treasury Department 36 

War Department 38 

Water-works 58 



Entered according to act of Congress, in the year 1888, by 
W. S. RoosE and John Gibson, 
office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D, C. 



13 J! '05 



Roosts Companimt and Guide 




THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 

No American citizen should remain contentedly ignorant of the history of the District 
of Columbia^ and of the events which led to its selection for the permanent seat of the 
Federal Government. 

The Continental Congress opened its first session in Philadelphia, Pa,, Sept. 5, 1774, 
and the succeeding year it also met in that city. For several seasons the fortune of war 
caused its migration from place to place. In Dec. 20, 1776, it met in Baltimore j bul 
again, March 4, 1777, it met in Philadelphia. In Sept. 27, 1777, it convened at Lan- 
caster, Pa., and Sept. 30, 1777, at York, Pa. July 2, 1778, it returned to Philadelphia, 
where it continued to meet until 1783, when it was expelled by a mob, which the State 
authorities did not suppress. Congress then adjourned to Princeton, N. J., June 30, 
1783. N6v. 26, 1783, it met at Annapolis, Md.; and it was while in session here that 
General Washington, Dec. 23, resigned his commission as general-in-chief of the army 
at the close of the revolutionary contest. Nov. i, 1784, it met at Trenton, N. J., 
from which it adjourned to meet Jan. 11, 1785, in New York city. This last con- 
tinued its place of meeting until the adoption of the Constitution of the United States, 
in 1788. 

It was in the city of New York the First Federal Congress assembled — and the elec- 
toral votes were counted for the election of the first President of the United States. 
Gen. Washington was inaugurated President on the balcony of Federal Hall, (the site \>f 
the present New York Custom-house,) April 30, 1789. 

The question " where the permanent seat of government should be located " gave rise 
to anxious debates even in the Continental Congress ; and in the Convention which 
framed the Constitution the subject was waived because graver issues demanded the 
attention of that body, and it was deemed hazardous to decide upon what necessarily in- 
volved great local irritation. 

The question, however, early engaged the attention of the First Federal Congress. 
Pennsylvania was anxious to have again within her territory the seat of power. New 
York was determined to retain, if she could, the possession which she held. New Jer- 
sey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, each stretched out an eager hand, presenting a 
several plea, for the coveted prize. The New England States seem to have kept silent 
as regarded their own claims, while the extreme Southern States, supported by Maryland 
and Virginia, determined to have the capital brought further South than either New 
York or Philadelphia. The South Carolinians were particularly anxious Philadelphia 
should not be selected because of the Quakers, who "were continually dogging Southern 
members with their schemes of emancipation." Not only were newspapers filled with 
the discussion of the question, but private journals and the correspondence of the period 
teem with the controversy. 

At length a bill passed the House, Sept. 22, 1789, ayes 31, noes 17, locating the per- 
manent capital " on the river Susquehanna, in the State of Pennsylvania." This loca- 
tion was bitterly opposed by Mr. Madison, who led the Southern members, and who 
was supposed also to express the wishes of President Washington. In the Senate the 
bill was amended : the " Delaware river " and the neighborhood of Philadelphia, " in- 
cluding Germantown," was substituted instead, and some other new provisions were 
inserted. On the return of the bill to the House it was again strenuously opposed by 
Mr. Madison, who at last succeeded in having an unimportant amendment introduced, 
hoping that the delay consequent upon its consideration in the Senate would cause iti 

5 



6 Roosts Companion and Guide 

being laid over to the next session of Congress. In this desire he wag gratified. Instead 
of passing the bill the Senate " postponed " its consideration, and Congress adjourned the 
next day, Sept. 29, 1789. 

At the next session of Congress the vexed question was again introduced. Partisan- 
ship ran high, and, in the opinion of many, upon its disposition seemed to hang the 
continued existence of the recently-formed Union. It was at this juncture that another 
question, involving the finances of the Republic, about which great diversity of opinion 
prevailed, and which also had enlisted warm and excited feeling, was made the basis of 
a compromise between the contending parties. 

Alexander Hamilton, of New York, Secretary of the Treasury, had recommended the 
assumption by the Federal Government of the State debt's. This was opposed by Virginia 
and the Southern States. It was ascertained that it required the change of two votes to 
carry into effect the financial project. To accomplish this, and also settle the question of 
the selection of a place for the permanent capital, the aid of Thomas Jefferson, then re- 
cently returned from France, and appointed Secretary of State, was invoked. 

The great democrat proposed that the subject should be talked over at a dinner, to 
which Hamilton was invited. It was there settled that if the votes of Lee and White, 
of Virginia, should be changed in favor of assumption, that Hamilton and Robert Mor- 
ris, of Pennsylvania, would bring such an influence to bear upon the question of the 
location of the capital as would insure its permanent establishment upon the banks of the 
Potomac. 

The bargain was. faithfully kept. Hamilton's financial scheme was adopted, and on 
the 31st May, 1790, Pierce Butler, of South Carolina, obtained permission of the Senate 
*'to bring in a bill to determine the permanent seat of Government of the United 
States." 

The bill located a district of territory for this purpose, not exceeding ten miles square, 
*' on the river Potomac, at some space between the mouths of the Eastern Branch and 
Conogocheaguej" the capital to be removed thither in 1800, and until that time the 
temporary capital was to be established in Philadelphia. It passed the Senate July I, 
1780, ayes 14, noes 12. Four attempts were made in the House to change the site of 
the Federal District, but were voted down, and the Senate bill was finally agreed to, 
July 9, 1790, by a vote of 32 ayes to 29 noes. It received the signature of the Presi- 
dent July 16, 1790. 

[Maryland, by an act passed Dec. 28, 1788, and Virginia, by an act of Dec.3, 1780, had pre- 
viously authorized the cession of such portions of their territory as might be selected by Federal 
authority for the seat of the General Government.] 

An amendatory act, which passed Congress March 3, 1791, repealed so much of the 
act of July 16, 1790, as required the whole District to be located above the mouth of 
the Eastern Branch, and authorized the President " to make any part of the said terri- 
tory below the said limit, and above the mouth of Hunting creek, a part of the said Dis- 
trict, so as to include a convenient part of the Eastern Branch, and of the lands lying on 
the lower side thereof, and also the town of Alexandria." It was provided that no pub- 
lic buildings should be erected otherwise than on the Maryland side of the Potomac. 

A proclamation had been issued by President Washington, dated Philadelphia, Jan. 24, 
1791, defining the boundaries of the District selected by him pursuant to the provisions 
of the first act. This was now followed by another proclamation amendatory of the 
other, dated Georgetown, March 30, 1791. The boundaries of the territory were 
therein declared to be as follows : 1 

> ** Beginning at Jones' Point, being the upper cape of Hunting creek, in Virginia, and at an an- 
gle in the outset of 45 degrees west of the north^ and running in a direct line tea miles for th« 



to Washington and Vicinity^ 




41 



8 Roosts Companion and Guide 

first line ; then beginning again at the same Jones' Point, and running another direct line at a right 
angle with the first, across the Potomac, ten miles, for the second line ; then from the termina- 
tions of the said first and second line, running two other direct lines, of ten miles each, the one 
crossing the Eastern Branch aforesaid and the other the Potomac, and meeting each other in a 
point." * * * " And the territory so to be located, defined, and limited shall be the whole 
territory accepted by the said act of Congress as the District for the permanent seat of the Gov- 
ernment of the United States." 

This territory contained a surface of ten miles square^ forming an area of loo square 
miles, or 64,000 acres, and included both margins of the Potomac. Its situation lay 
between 38° 48' and 38° 59' north latitude. The Capitol, afterward erected near its 
centre, is in 76° 55' 3°.54" west longitude from Greenwich. Georgetown and Alex- 
andria were within its limits — the remainder was plantation or farm land. 

President Washington appointed, Jan., 1 791, ex-Governor Thomas Johnson, of Md., 
Dr. David Stuart, of Va., and the Hon. Daniel Carroll, of Rock Creek, Md., the first 
three Commissioners pursuant to the provisions of the act of July 16, 1790, who were 
empowered " to survey " and " define and limit a district of territory * * for the 
permanent seat of Government." They were also *' to have power to purchase or accept 
such quantity of land on the eastern side of the said river, [Potomac,] within the said 
district, as the President shall deem proper for the use of the United States, and *' pro- 
vide suitable buildings for the accommodation of Congress and of the President, and for 
the public offices of the Government of the United States ;" all subject to the approval 
of the President.* 

Intc-esting as the history really is of the work accomplished by the Commissioners, 
their vexatious trials and various disappointments, the limited space of the present publi- 
cation will only permit a recapitulation of the main results of their efforts. 

The bargain and purchase of the land occupied by the Federal City from the original 
proprietors was brought about by the following arrangement : 

Extracts from the Agreement of the Nineteen Original Proprietors. 

The limits of the District of Columbia, as they now exist, having been fixed and pro- 
claimed in March, 1791, under the authority of acts of Congress, nineteen of the princi- 
pal proprietors of the lands constituting the present site of the city of Washington drew 
up and signed a general agreement among themselves, dated March 30, 1791, which 
they presented to the Commissioners, as the basis of the terms on which they should 
dedicate their lands to the purposes of the Federal City, and as such it was accepted by 
the Commissioners, and recorded in their books, on the 12th April, 1791,35 follows: 

"We, the subscribers, in consideration of the great benefits we expect to derive from having 
the Federal City laid oflf upon our lands, do hereby agree and bind ourselves, heirs, executors, 
and administrators, to convey, in trust, to the President of the United States, or Commissioners, 
or such person or persons as he shall appoint, by good and sufficient deeds, in fee simple, the 
whole of our respective lands which he may think proper to include within the lines of the Fed- 
eral City, for the purposes and on the conditions following : 

" The President shall have the sole power of directing the Federal City to be laid off in what 
manner he pleases. 

" He may retain any number of squares he may think proper for public improvements, or 
other public uses ; and the lots only, which shall be laid off, shall be a joint property between 
the trustees on behalf of the public and each present proprietor; and the same shall be fairly and 
equally divided between the public and the individuals, as soon as may be, the city shall be 
laid off. 

" For the streets the proprietors shall receive no compensation — ^but for the squares or lands 
tn any form which shall be taken for public buildings, or any kind of public improvements or 

Ml I ■■ I I I ■ I 

^* Vide Wyeth's Federal City. The compiler of this work has made very liberal use of Mr. 
\Vyeth'8 book throughout, with the consent of that gentlemaa. 



to Washmgton and Vicinity. 9 

iues, the proprietors, whose lands shall be taken, shall receive at the rate of 25 pounds per acre, 
[sixty-six ana two-thirds dollars,] to be paid by the public." 

The lands were conveyed, in trust, by the original proprietors, to Thomas Bcall, son 
of George, and John Mackall Gantt, to be by them disposed of, to be laid out as a 
Federal City, according to the above provisions. 

In 1846 that portion of the District of Columbia which had been originally a portion 
of Virginia was retroceded by act of Congress back again to that State. 

PLAN OF THE CITY. 

A Frenchman, Major L'Enfant, originated the plan of the Federal City. He was 
a young officer belonging to the engineer corps of the French army, which aided us in 
our Revolutionary struggle. He early became a favorite of Gen. Washington, who ap- 
proved his plan, and time has since confirmed the wisdom of that approval. 

The Capitol was to be considered the centre of the city ; from it the streets are 
counted north, south, east, and west j several of the avenues also radiate from it. The 
streets cross each other at right angles. Those running east and west are called after 
the letters of the alphabet. A, B, C, D streets, etc.; those running north and south, 
First, Second, Third streets, etc. 

The avenues, named after the different States at the time the city was laid out — and 
a few others since added — cross these streets diagonally, and point in every conceivable 
direction. 

North, South, and East Capitol streets intersect each other at the centre of th^. Capi- 
tol, and with an imaginary line continued west, divide the city into four sections. So 
there is a First street east and a First street west j an A street north and an A street 
south, and so on throughout. 

There is no West Capitol street. Where that would have opened are gardens, etc., 
continued on until the grounds of the Smithsonian Institution are reached. Then suc- 
ceed those surrounding the Agricultural Bureau building, and beyond them are those 
apon which the Washington Monument is erected. These reservations were intended 
to become an ornamented park, and in the early history of the city this place is called 
The Mall. The grounds stretching south from the President's House connect with 
those surrounding the Monument. 

The population of Washington City in 1810 was 8,ao8 j in 1820, 13,247 ; in 1830, 
18,826; in 1840, 23,3645 in 1850, 40,001 ; in i860, 6i,i22j in 1870, 109,199} 
in 1880, 147,307; and in 1890, District ofColumbia, 230,392. 

THE CAPITOL. 

The United States Capitol, like the Capitol of ancient Rome, stands upon a hill 
commanding a view westward, pronounced by the great traveller Humboldt one of the 
most beautiful his eyes had ever seen. 

The Capitol extends 751 feet 4 inches in length; the greatest breadth, including the 
steps of the Extensions, is 324 feet. The whole covers an area of three-and-a-half acres, 
or 153,112 square feet. Its cost to the present time has been about $13,000,000. 

The centre portion of the building — the original Capitol — is built of yellowish sand- 
stone, painted white, procured from an island in Acquia creek, Virginia. The island 
was purchased by Government from the Brent family, for $6,000, in 1 791. 

The Extensions are of white marble, slightly tinged with blue, obtained from Lee, 
Massachusetts. The monolith marble columns of the Extensions, of which there are 
cne hundred, were taken from a quarry in Maryland. 

The Dome is of iron, painted white, surmounted by the st^tye of Freedom, a broi^ff 



lO 



Roosts Companion and Guide 



figure 1 9 J feet in height. The dp 
of the feather of this statue is 287 
feet 1 1 inches above the base line 
of the building east. Capitol Hill 
is within a fraction of 90 feet high ; 
consequently the head of the statue 
is 377 feet above tide- water. 

The east Capitol park, stretch- 
ing to the line of First street east, 
has a frontage from B street n. e. 
to B street s. e., comprising a dis- 
tance of 1,500 feet. 

The eastern front of the Capitol 
is, properly speaking, its main firont. 
It consists of a central Portico, 160 
feet wide, with a projection, in- 
cluding the steps, of 65 feet, orna- 
mented with 24 pillars and 12 pi- 
lasters, crowned with a pediment 
of 80 feet span. The whole front 
of what was the original Capitol is 
352 feet; to this has been added, 
on either side, a colonnaded corri- 
dor of 44 feet; to these are at- 
tached the Extensions — that of 
the Senate on the north, and that 
of the House on the south end. 

Each Extension is adorned with 

CAPITOL, WEST FRONT, AS IT WAS IN 1874. • . c ^ o ' \. -j 

'^ z. portico 14a feet 8 mches wide, 

with a pediment of 72 feet spanj 22 columns and 12 pilasters of the Corinthian style 
ornament the Extension porticoes. 

The north and south fronts of the Capitol are alike. They extend 239 feet, and 
have each a portico 120 feet front, with a projection of 10 feet 6 inches, and an en- 
tablature supported by 10 columns. 

The west front of the Capitol is that with which strangers ordinarily arc most familiar. 
It consists also of three ornamented porticoes; the central one a colonnade 100 feet 
front, with ten columns, eight of which are coupled, and a corresponding number of pi- 
lasters. This portico communicates with the Library of Congress. Then to each of the 
Extensions is attached a portico similar in architectural details to the north and south 
porticoes, with a length of 105 feet, ornamented with 10 columns. 

A stone terrace has been erected on the north, west, and south sides, which removes 
the impression of insecurity and gives the building an appearance of greater stability. 
A handsome balustrade will crown the terrace. A grand stone stairway is being erected 
to the main western portico. 

A monument commemorating the important services of the navy during the recent 
civil war is at the foot of the hill, where Pennsylvania avenue intersects the Capitol 
grounds west. 

. The height of the monument is about 40 feet. Two figures. History and America, 
crown the top. History holds in one hand a tablet, and a stylus in the other. America 
stands weeping, with her head bowed down. History directs attention to the inscription 
in h?r t»t>lct, " They died th^t their country mi|ht live." 




to Washi7igton ajid Vicinity. 



Below these figures stands Vic- 
tory, holding a wreath in her up- 
stretched right hand — beneath 
Victory, on either side, is a youth- 
ful Neptune and Mars. 

Peace occupies the same position 
on the cast side or back of the mon- 
ument as Victory does on the west 
or front side. She holds an olive 
branch in her hand, and is sur- 
rounded by representations of agri- 
cultural products and implements. 
A dove is also here beautifully 
sculptured. 

The monument bears the in- 
scription, " In memory of the offi- 
cers, seamen, and marines of the 
United States navy who fell in de- 
fence of the Union and liberty of 
their country, 1 861-1865." Funds 
were contributed for its erection by 
the officers and sailors of the navy, 
and members of the marine corps. 
Admiral Porter was actively instru- 
mental in influencing the erection 
of this monument. It was designed 
by Franklin Simmons, of R. I. 
Government contributed $25,000 
for the Statue of Peace, the gran- 
ite fountain, and pedestal, &c., on 
which the monument stands. 

We will now return to the East Central Portico of 
the Capitol. 

Immediately opposite and facing this Portico is 
GrecnougK't Statue of Waihlngton. It is of colossal 
size, and has an interesting history. It was ordered 
in 1832, to be placed in the centre of the Rotunda, 
over the tomb or vaulted chamber built for the recep- 
tion of the remains of Washington two stories be- 
neath. The statue was finished in 1840, and the 
artist received $20,000 while working on it. Two 
other bills in connection with it were paid him, 
amounting to $10,435.85. The expenses of trans- 
portation from Italy, its erection in the Rotunda, of 
its subsequent removals, and of the pedestal upon 
which it is placed, have absorbed at least $13,000 
more. 

The chair upon which the figure sits is ornamented 
with the acanthus leaf and lions' heads. A small 
figure of Columbus and another of an Indian chief 
lean against its back. On the pedestal is inscribed 




NAVAI. MOKtnfBMT. 




GRBBNOUGH's WASHINGTON. 



12 



Roosts Companion and Guide 



the deserved eulogy on Washington, pronounced by Governor Henry Lee : ** Tint in 
*War — 'fir it in peace — first in the hearti of bis countrymen" 

Washington sits in majesty, a sort of Jupiter. His person is nude to the waist. In 
his left hand is a sheathed sword, and with his right he points toward heaven. 

On the right side of the chair is a basso-relie'vo of Phcebus-Apollo driving the chariot 
of the sun around the world — thus representing, in pictured allegory, the rising sun, the 
crest of the national arms of the United States. On the left side of the chair is depicted 
the infant Hercules strangling the serpent, while Iphiclus, his feebler twin-brother, 
stretched on the ground, shrinks from the contest ; illustrating the genii of North and 
South America. On the back of the chair is inscribed : " Simulacrum istud ad magnum 
Libertatus exemplum^ nee sine ipsa duraturum. Horatio G^^^vovGw.y faciebat." This 
has been translated by a distinguished scholar into — 

*' This statue cast in Freedom's stately form. 
And by her e'er upheld. 

" Horatio Greenough, Sculptor.** 

We will now ascend the steps. Upon them Ihe Presidents of the United States are 
inaugurated j over a hundred thousand people, occupying the eastern park, might witness 
the ceremony. 

Above the south end of the steps, on an elevated block, stands a marble group by 

Signer Persico, 
called The Discov- 
eryy on which he 
worked five years. 
It consists of two 
figures : Columbus 
holding the globe 
in his hand tri- 
umphant, while 
beside him, won- 
dering, almost ter- 
ror-stricken, is a 
f e m a 1 e figure, 
^mbolizing the 
Indian race. The 
suit of armor worn 
by Columbus is 
said to be a faith- 
ful copy of one he 
actually wore. 
The group cost 
$24,000. 

On the north side of the steps, occupying a similar elevation. Is another marble group — 
the artist, Horatio Greenough — called Ci-vilization, or tke Settlement of the Country. It 
represents the American pioneer in conflict with the Indian} the fight is desperate} the 
wife of the frontier settler, with her babe, and a faithful dog, are the adjuncts. Green- 
ough was at work eight years on this group, which cost $24,000. 

'TYMPANUM OF THE PORTICO. Before we enter the Portico we will 
direct our attention to a group of allegorical figures of colossal size, said to be the design 
of John Quincy Adams, executed by Signer Persico, and occupying the tympanum of the 
Portico — ^just over our heads. 





C;- 



-^ 



IKaa-sfA-Aaas:=..'^'i^ 



CIVILWATION. 



THE DISCOVERT. 



to Washington and Vicinity. 



13 




14 Roosts Companion and Guide 

The central figure is the Genius of America, crowned with a star, holding a shield ; on 
it are the letters U. S. A. The shield rests on an altar, on which, within an oaken 
wreath, is inscribed, "July 4, 1776." At her feet sits an eagle. Behind her is a spear. 
Hope, on her left, rests on an anchor. America directs the attention of Hope to Justice, 
who has in her right hand the Constitution of the United States. This composition is 
wrought in sandstone, and cost $1,500. 

Within niches on either side of the Bronze Door are statues, also the work of Signor 
Persico. 

The one on the north side is War. The figure grasps in his right hand a sword, in 
the other, a shield. His costume is Roman, and his belt and tunic are ornamented with 
appropriate symbols. 

Peace is a female figure of majestic beauty, with a gentle, winning smile, and in sim- 
ple flowing robes. She holds a fruit-bearing olive branch in her hand. The cost of 
these two figures was $6,000 each. 

Above the Bronze Door, sculptured in stone by Capellano, is a bust of Washington 
crowned by Fame and Peace. 

THE ROGERS BRONZE DOOR. This is the main central door of the 
Capitol, and on it is a pictured history of events connected with the life of Columbus 
and the discovery of America. 

The door weighs 20,000 pounds ; is 1 7 feet high and 9 feet wide ; it is folding or 
double, and stands sunk back inside of a bronze casing, which projects about a foot for- 
ward from the leaves or valves. On this casing are four figures at the top and bottom, 
representing Asia, Africa, Europe, and America. A border, emblematic of conquest and 
navigation, runs along the casing between them. 

The Door has eight Panels beside the semi-circular one at the top. In each Panel 
7s a picture in alto-relievo. 

It was designed by Randolph Rogers, an American, and modelled by him in Rome, in 
1858 J and was cast by F. Von Muller, at Munich, in 1861. 

The story the door tells is the History of Columbus and the Discovery of America. 

The Panel containing the earliest event in the life of the discoverer is the lowest one on the 
south side, and represents "Columbus undergoing an Examination before the Council of 
Salamanca." 

The Panel above it contains " Columbus' Departure from the Convent of La Rabida,** near 
Palos. He is just setting out to visit the Spanish Court. 

The one above it is his " Audience at the Court of Ferdinand and Isabella." 

The next Panel is the top one of this half of the door, and represents the " Starting of Colum- 
bus from Palos on his first voyage." 

The transom Panel occupies the semi-circular sweep over the whole door. The extended 
picture here is the " First Landing of the Spaniards at San Salvador." 

The top Panel on the other leaf of the door represents the " First Encounter of the Dis- 
coverers with the Natives." In it one of the sailors is seen bringing an Indian girl on his 
shoulders a prisoner. The transaction aroused the stem indignation of Columbus. 

The Panel next below this one has in it "The Triumphal Entry of Columbus into 
Barcelona." 

The Panel below this represents a very different scene, and is " Columbus in Chains." 

In the next and last Panel is the " Death Scene." Columbus lies in bed. The last rites of 
the Catholic Church have been administered ; friends and attendants are around him ; and a 
priest holds up a crucifix for him to kiss, and upon it bids him fix his dying eyes. 

On the Door, on the sides and between the Panels, are sixteen small statues, set in niches, 
of eminent contemporaries of Columbus. Their names are marked on the Door, and beginning 
at the bott»m, on the side from which we started in numbering the Panels, we find the figure In 
the lowest niche is Perez; then above him is Cortez, and again standing over him is Ojedia. 

Vespucci occupies the next niche on the door. 

Then, opposite in line across the door, standing in two niches, side by side, are Mendoza and 
Alexander Vl. 

Then below them stand Isabella and Ferdinand, King and Queen of Spain ; beneath thea 
Stands the Lady Beatrice de Bobadilla; beside her is Charles VlII, King of France. 



to Washington and Vicinity, 



Ut 





FEACB. 



The first figure of the lowest pair on the door is Henry VII, of England; beside bim Standi 
John II, King of Portugal. 

Then, in the same line with them, across the Panel, is Pinzon. 

In the niche above Pinzon stands B. Columbus, the brother of the great navigator. 

Then comes Vasco Nunez de Balboa, and in the niche above, again at the top of the Door^ 
stands the figure of Francisco Pizarro, the conqueror of Peru. 

Between the Panels and at top and bottom of the valves of the Door are ten projecting heads. 
Those between the panels are historians who have written on Columbus' voyages from nis owa 
time down to the present day, ending with Irving and Prescott. 

The two heads at the tops of the valves are female heads, while the two next the floor possess 
Indian characteristics. 

Above, over the transom arch, looks down, over all, the serene grand head of Columbus. 
Beneath it, the American Eagle spreads out his widely extended wings. f 

>Mr. Rogers received $8,000 for his models, and Mr. Von MuUer was paid $17,000 

in gold for casting the Door. To a large portion of this latter sum must be added the 

Vigh premium on exchange which ruled during the war, the cost of storage and trafll- 



» Roosts Companion and Guide 

portation, and the expense of the erection of the Door in the Capitol after its arriTal. 
These items would, added together, far exceed $30,000 in the then national currency. 

We will now enter the Rotunda. 

This magnificent apartment occupies the centre of the Capitol. It is 97 feet in 
diameter and 300 feet in circumference. Its height, from the floor to the centre of 
the pictured canopy which overhangs it, is 180 feet 3 inches. 

We will first look at the pictures which surround its circuit. There arc eight of 
them, each occupying a large panel, and they measure 18 by 1 2 feet. 

The first in point of event is the Landing of Columbus at San Salvador in 1492 j by 
John Vanderlyn J its cost was $12,000. This picture represents the scene Washington 
Irving 80 admirably describes in his " Voyages of Columbus," occurring the morning the 
boats brought the little Spanish band from the ships to the shore. *< Columbus first 
threw himself upon his knees } then rising, drew his sword, displayed the royal standard, 
and, assembling round him the two captains, with Rodrigo de Escobeda, notary of the 
armament, Rodrigo Sanchez, [the royal inspector,] and the rest who had landed, he took 
solemn possession of the island in the name of the Castilian sovereigns." The picture con- 
tains the figures of Columbus, the two Pinzons, Escobedo, all bearing standards ; Sanchez, 
inspector J Diego de Arana, with an old-fashioned arquebus on his shoulder j a cabin-boy 
kneeling ; a mutineer in a suppliant attitude ; a sailor in an attitude of veneration for 
Columbus ; a aoldier whose attention is diverted by the appearance of the natives, and a 
friar bearing a crucifix. 

The second picture in succession of event, 1541, is De Soto's Discovery of the Missis- 
rippi^ painted by Wm. H. Powell} cost $15,000. The scene is a view of the Mississippi 
river, with islands in sight and canoes filled with Indians. On the bank, soldiers and 
priests are planting a cross j to the left are wigwams and a group of Indians. De Soto 
on horseback is approaching the river in state, attended by a train of followers. A camp- 
chest, with arms, and a soldier dressing his wounded leg, are accessories of the painting. 

The next in order of time, 1 61 3, is The Baptism of Pocahontas j by John Gadsby Chap- 
man; cost $10,000. 

This picture tells its own story. The characters introduced are Pocahontas, John 
Rolfe, afterwards her husband, with the Rev. Alex. Whitaker, who is performing the 
ceremony ; Sir Thomas Dale stands on his right, his standard-bearer and page near him. 
The sister of Pocahontas, with her child, is seated on the floor ; Opechankanough, an 
Indian chief, also is seated, while Nantaquaas and Opachisco, her brother and uncle, 
•tand near her. Other figures, male and female, are stationed in different parts of the 
thurch ; among them are Richard Wyffin, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest, John and Anne Lay- 
ion, and Henry Spilman. 

The succeeding picture, in chronological series, is Tie Embarcation of the Pilgrims 
firom Delft-Haven, in Holland, 2i8t July, i6ao. Painted by Robert Walter Weir. 
Cost $10,000. 

The scene depicted is the delivery of the parting prayer of Mr. Robinson, the pastor 
»f the little congregation, on board the Speedivelly surrounded by the pilgrims and their 
friends. The persons represented are the pastor, then Elder Wm. Brewster, with open 
Bible before him, Mrs. Brewster and a sick child. Gov. Carver, Wm. Bradford, Mr. and 
Mrs. Fuller, Miles Standish and Rose, his wife, Mrs. Carver and child, Mrs. Bradford, 
Captain Reynolds and sailor, with several children, a nurse, etc. 

The four other pictures were painted by Col. John Trumbull, son of Jonathan Trum- 
bull, governor of Connecticut previous to and during the Revolution. Col. Trumbull 
was himself at one time aid-de-camp of General Washingt9n, but retired from the ler- 
Tie? in 1777, 



to Washington anekVidniiy, t7 

The Trumbull series of pictures are especially valuable, becauae each of the many 
faces painted in them are actual likenesses, for which many of the subjects sat to the 
artist, and when this was not the case, copies of portraits at the time in the possession of 
the respective families were introduced. The paintings are the result of many years* de- 
votion to his art by Col. Trumbull, and of a patriotic endeavor to perpetuate the grand 
deeds which they commemorate. ( 

Col. Trumbull received for these four pictures $32,000. They were ordered in 1817 
and finished in 1824. Col. Trumbull was born 1756} died 1843. 

The Declaration of Independence^ '^11^- Of five who reported the draft of the Declara- 
tion, Jefferson, John Adams, Franklin, Sherman, and R. R. Livingston, stand near 
the table at which Hancock, the President, sits. 

The other portraits are, commencing on the extreme left, i, George Wythe, of Va.{ 3, Wm. 
Whipple and, 3, Josiah Bartlett, of N. H.; 4, Benj. Harrison, of Va.; 5, Thomas Lynch, of 
S. C; 6, Richard Henry Lee, of Vt.; 7, Samuel Adams, of Mass.; 8, George Clinton, of N. Y.; 
9, William Paca and, 10, Samuel Chase, of Md.; 11, Lewis Morris and, 12, William Floyd, of 
N. Y.; 13, Arthur Middleton and, 14, Tiiomas Hayward, of S. C; 15, Charles Carroll, of Md.j 
16, George Walton, of Ga.; 17, Robert Morris, 18, Thomas Willing, and, 19, Benjamin Rush, 
of Pa.; 20, Eldridge Gerry and, 21, Robert Treat Payne, of Mass.; 22, Abraham Clark, of N. 
I.; 23, Stephen Hopkins and, 24, William Eller>', of R. L; 25, George Clymer, of Pa.; a6, Wil- 
liam Hooper and, 27, Joseph Hewes, of N. C; 28, James Wilson, of Pa., and, 39, Francis Hop- 
kinson, of N. J. 
Then comes the Committee of Five, already noted ; after which, still continuing, are-^ 
35, Richard Stockton, of N. J.; 36, Francis Lewis, of N. Y.; 37, John Witherspoon, of N. J.f 
38, Samuel Huntington, 39, William Williams, and, 40, Oliver Wolcott, of Conn.; 41, John Han- 
cock, of Mass., President of Congress; 42, Charles Thompson, of Pa.; 43, George Reed and, 
44, John Dickinson, of Del.; 45, Edward Rutledge, of S. C; 46, Thomas McKeao, of Pa^ and, 
47, Philip Livingston, of N. Y. 

Surrender of General Burgoyne^ Saratoga, Oct. 1 7, 1 777. "The painting represents 
Gen. Burgoyne, attended by Gen. Phillips, and followed by other officerSf arriving near 
the marque of Gen. Gates. 

" Gen. Gates has advanced a few steps to meet his prisoner, who, with Gen. Phillips, 
has dismounted, and is in the act of offering his sword, which Gen. Gates declines to 
receive, and invites them to enter and partake of refreshments. A number of the prin- 
cipal ofRcers of the American army are assembled near their General.** These we will 
now enumerate. 

(The numbering commences on the extreme left of the picture.) 

I, Major Lithgow. of Mass.; 2, Colonel Cilly and, 3, General Stark, of N. H.j 4, Captain Sey« 
mour. of Conn., of Sheldon's horse; 5, Major Hull and, 6, Colonel Greaton, of Mass.; 7, Major 
Dearborn and, 8, Colonel Scammell, of N. H.; and, 9, Colonel Lewis, Quartermaster-General, 
N. Y.; 10, Major-General Phillips, of the British army; 11, Lieutenant-General Burgoyne, Britist^ 
and, 12, General Baron Reidesel, German; 13, Colonel Wilkinson, Deputy Adjutant-General, 
American; 1 4, General Gates ; 15, Colonel Prescott, Mass. Volunteers; i6. Colonel Morgan, 
Va. Riflemen; 17, Brigadier-General Rufus Putnam, of Mass.; 18, Lieutenant-Colonel John 
Brooks, late Governor of Mass.; lo, Rev. Mr. Hitchcock, Chaplain, of R. I.; 20, Major Robert 
Troup, Aid-de-Camp, N. Y.; 21, Major Haskell, of Mass.; 22, Major Armstrong, Aid-de-Campj 
2^, Major-General Philip Schuyler, Albany ; 24, Brigadier-GencraJ Glover, of Mass.; 25, Briga- 
dier-General Whipple, N. H. Militia; 26, Major Matthew Clarkson, Aid-de-Camp, N. Y,, and, 
«7, Major Ebenezer Stevens, of Mass., Commander of Artillery. 

Surrender of Lord Cornivallisy at Yorktown, Oct. 19, 178 1. This was the triumph- 
ant closing scene of the war j and the glory of the triumph seems to linger on the glow- 
ing canvas. 

" The painting represents the moment when the principal officers of the British army, eon- 
dncted by Gen. Lincoln, are passing the two groups of American and French generals, and en- 
tering between the two lines of the victors." 

Resignation of General fVashington ; Annapolis, Dec. 23, 1 78 3. General Washing- 
ton, after taking leave of his old comrades at New York, accompanied by only two of 



i5 Roosis Companion and Guide 

chem, proceeded to Annapolis, where Congress was then sitting, and there resigned his 
commission. 

The persons introduced, whose portraits are given, are : 

I, Thomas Mifflin, of Pa., President of Congress ; 2, Charles Thompson, of Pa.; 3, Elbridge 
Gerry, of Mass.; 4, Hugh Williamson, of N. C.; 5, Samuel Osgood, of Mass.; 6, Edward Mc- 
Comb. of Del.; 7, George Partridge of Mass.; 8, Edward Lloyd, of Md.; 9, R. D. Spaight and 
10, Benjamin Hawkins, of N. C; n, A. Foster, of N. H.; 12, Thomas Jefferson, of Va.; 13, Ar- 
thur Lee, of Va.; 14, David Howell, of R. I.; 15, James Monroe, of Va.; 16, Jacob Reid, of 
S. C., members of Congress; 17, James Madison, of Va., spectator; 18, William Ellery, of R. L; 
19, Jeremiah Townley Chase, of Md.; 20, S. Hardy, of Va.; 21, Charles Morris, of Pa., mem- 
bers ; 22, General George Washington ; 23, Colonel Benjamin Walker, and 24, Colonel David 
Humphreys, Aids-de-Camp ; then, 25, General Smallwood, of Md.; 26, General Otho Holland 
Williams, ofMd.; 27, Colonel Samuel Smith of Md.; 28, Colonel John E. Howard, of Baltimore, 
Md.; 29, Charles Carroll, and two daughters, of Md.; 30, Daniel, of St. Thomas Jennifer, Md.; 
31, Mrs. Washington, and her grandchildren, spectators. 

RELIEVOS IN THE ROTUNDA. Over each of the four doors leading 
from the Rotunda are alto-relievos in stone. The cost of the four is said to have been 
$14,000. 

The group over the east door is " The Landing of the Pilgrims on Plymouth Rock 
in 1620," The artist was Signor Enrico Causici, of Verona, a pupil of Canova. 

That ovel- the north doorway is "William Penn's Treaty with the Indians in 1686." 
A Frenchman, Monsieur N. Gevelot, executed this work in 1827. 

Over the door opening west is "The Preservation of Captain Smith by Pocahontas in 
1606." Signor Capellano, another pupil of Canova, was the artist. It was executed in 
1825. 

The group over the doorway leading south is the " Conflict between Daniel Boone 
and the Indians, 1775." This is the work of Causici. 

Eight long narrow hasso-relievos of arabesque pattern are in the panels above the pic- 
tures. Four of them contain medallion heads. The heads are portraits of Columbus^ 
Cabot, Sir Walter Raleigh, and La Salle. The whole of them cost $9,500. 

THE BELT OF THE ROTUNDA. There is above the architrave a 
sunken space or kind of shelf, about 9 feet high, traversing the whole circuit of the Ro- 
tunda. This is now being filled with a fresco in chiaro-oscuro in imitation of alto-relievo. 
It is a series of Sketches of American History, and is so wonderful in execution that, from 
the floor of the Rotunda, it seems incredible that it is not a relief. 

The series commences immediately above the west door of the chamber. The first 
tall figure is America armed with spear and shield, at her feet the eagle j seated on the 
ground on her right is the American Indian with bow and arrows j and in the same 
position on her left the Genius of History sketching events. 

The looker-on must now imagine himself looking into the sketch-book, the fint 
scene of which is, 

" The Landing of Columbus." 

The second, " Cortcz entering the Temple of the Sun in Mexico." 

The third, " Pizarro, with the horse, progressing in the conquest of Peru.** 

The fourth, " The burial of De Soto in the Mississippi river." 

The fifth, " The rescue of Captain John Smith by Pocahontas." 

The sixth, " The disembarkation of the Pilgrim Fathers." 

The seventh, " Penn's treaty with the Indians and settlement of Pennsylvania.** 

The eighth, " The Industrial Colonization of the New England States." 

The ninth, " Gen. Oglethorpe and Muscogee Chief," an incident in the colonizatioa 
of Georgia. ,^ 

The tenth^ "The battle of Lexington." 

The eleventh, " The Declaration of Independence." 



to Washington and Vtdniiy. 19 

The twelfth, " The surrender of Lord Cornwallis." 

The thirteenth, " The death of Tecumseh." 

The fourteenth, " The American Army entering the city of Mexico.** 

The fifteenth and last, completing the circuit of the belt, ** Laborers in the gold tninei 
of California." 

The estimated cost of this picture is $10,000. 

A short distance above the frieze thirty-six tall windows admit a flood of light into the 
chamber. Above them springs the arch of the dome, lessening in curvature like the 
inside of an egg-shell, until contracted to a space of 50 feet in diameter, forming the eye 
of the dome. 

Beyond and over this open eye, within the canopy that overhangs it, is painted Bru- 
midi's allegorical fresco of the Apotheosis of Washington.* 

BRUMIDI'S ALLEGORICAL PAINTING. The central group of the 
picture represents Washington seated in majesty. On his right is the Goddess of Liberty, 
and on his left is a winged idealization of Victory and Fame — sounding a trumpet and dis- 
playing the victor's palm. Before the three, forming a semicircle, are thirteen fcmalt 
figures. They represent the thirteen original States ; each is crowned with a star, and 
they hold up a ribbon-banner inscribed '* E Pluribus Unum." 

Below this centre group are six other groups round the base of the canopy. 

The first, occupying the west, is War. Freedom, with uplifted sword, is striking down 
tyranny and kingly power. An angry Eagle, striking with his beak, is fighting for, and by tht 
•ide of. Freedom. 

The second is Agriculture. Ceres, Flora, and Pomona figure in this group. 

Then succeeds Mechanics. Vulcan, with his right foot resting on a cannon, and surrounded 
by machinery, forges, mortars, amd cannon balls, is the stalwart genius of this group. 

The next, and occupying the east, is Commerce. Mercury holds in his hand a bag of gold, 
to which he is directing the attention of Robert Morris. 

The group beside this symbolizes the Marine. Aphrodite, [Venus.] half risen fi-om the waves, 
bolds in her hand the Atlantic cable, given her by a winged cheruD, and is about dropping it 
into the sea. Neptune, astonished, is emerging from the deep. 

The last is The Arts and Sciences. Minsrva stands gloriously prominent with helmet and 
•pear. Near her, attentive to her teachings, are Benjamin Franklin, Robert Fulton, and S. F. 

L Morse. There are also boys, with wondering eyes and expressive gestures, Usteniog to tht 
truction of a school-teacher. 

This painting covers an area of 4,664 square feet. 

Mr. Brumidi received for this work $39,500. 

The circumference of the base of the canopy is 205 feet 4 inches ; its diameter is 65 
feet 4 inches, and its height from base to top, in a straight line, is 20 feet 'j\ inches. 

THE WHISPERING GALLERY OF THE CAPITOL. The spheri- 
cal shape of the canopy, iaside of which the picture we have just described is painted, 
causes an interesting acoustic result. Two persons, standing immediately opposite each 
other, can converse with the utmost ease in a low tone of voice — indeed, if it is silent 
in the Rotunda beneath, a whisper can be distinctly heard across the immense concave. 
The voice of the person speaking, however, seems to be talking immediately opposite 
and above the position he really occupies. It is well worth the climb to observe this 
lingular effect. 

The stairway still ascends above the picture, and traverses the top of the canopy be- 
tween the two shells, until it reaches the ** Tholus " or " lantern " of the Dome. 

Tht Statue of Freedom crowns the Dome. It weighs 14,985 pounds, and was placed 
in position Dec. 2, 1863. The forts then surrounding W'ashington fired a salute in 
honor of the occasion. Mr. Crawford received for his model $3,000, and the casting 

* The word " Apotheosis *' is of Greek origin, anci neans the enrolment of a mortal among 
th« gods. 



20 



Roose's Companion and Guide 




niBBDOM. 




■BAIIMin^«I.OCK. 



of it, by Mr. Clark Mills, with all the attending ex- 
penses, netted an additional sum of $20,796.82. 

For years previous to 1880, the Rotunda, Dome, and 
Tholus were lighted at night-time by 1,280 gas-jcta 
ignited by electricity. The electric-room is in the cen- 
tral portion of the building. 

We will now descend from the Dome again to the 
Rotunda, and enter the doorway leading south from 
that apartment. 

Passing through a small vestibule, we shall then find 
ourselves in the 

OLD HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES. 
This chamber, resembling an ancient Grecian theatre, 
is 95 feet long, and 60 feet in height to the most ele- 
vated point of the ceiling. Twenty-six pillars and pilas- 
ters of Potomac marble support a dome with painted 
caissons. A cupola, painted by Bonani, an Italian, ad- 
mits light from above. 

Under a sweeping arch near the dome is a colossal fig- 
ure of Liberty, by Causici, in plaster. Beneath it, on the 
entablature, is sculptured, in stone, the American eagle 
in the act of taking wing, by Valperti, also an Italian. 
Opposite, over the door through 
which we entered, stands the old 
marble clock of the Hall. It repre- 
sents the Genius of History record- 
ing the events of the Nation. She 
stands in a graceful attitude, with pen 
in hand, on a winged car rolling over 
a globe. The wheel of the car serves 
as the face of the clock. This beau- 
tiful work of art was executed by 
Signor C. Franzoni, an Italian, who 
died May 12, 18 19. The credit of 
designing it is a matter of controversy. 
This Old Hall is now used as a 
statuary-room, in compliance with a 
suggestion of Senator Justin S. Mor- 
rill, of Vermont, made when a mem- 
ber of the House, that " each State 
should be permitted to send the effi- 
gies of two of her chosen sons, in 
marble or bronze, to be placed per- 
manently here." Other statuary, be- 
longing to the Government, mostly of 
historical interest, with paintings, etc., 
have also been placed in their (:0m- 
panionship. 

Of this latter class we will irit 
speak : Among them stands w plaste 
cast of HoudirCi WMhingtaiL, 



to Washington and Vicinity. 



21 



Houdon came from France with Franklin in 1785, and obtained his model from Waih- 
ington himself. He remained a guest for two weeks at Mount Vernon. The present 
copy was taken by Hubard, and cost $2,000. 

Buit of Koiciusko. Born 1755, ^^^^ 18 17, The artist who made this bust was also a 
Pole, named Mochowski. He assumed as his American name that of Saunders. It cost 
$500. 

Misi Ream's Statue of Lincoln. In 
1866 Congress appropriated $10,000 
for a full-length statue of Mr. Lin- 
coln. Miss Ream, of Washington 
city, received the commission for its 
execution. The work was finished 
in 1870, and on its completion an 
additional $5,000 was obtained by 
her from Congress. 

Amei Butt of Lincoln. Mrs. Sa- 
rah Fisher Ames, of Mass., received 
an order in 1868 from Congress to 
make a bust of President Lincoln. 
She received $2,000 for her work. 
It stands on a Scotch granite pedes- 
tal, presented by A. Macdonald, Field 
& Co., of Aberdeen, Scotland. 

Buit of Thomai Crawford. Craw- 
ford was the artist who designed the 
statue of Freedom, the Senate Bronze 
Door, the marble group above it, and 
the marble figures ornamenting the 
tympanum of the Senate Extension 
Portico. His bust is the work of T. 
Gagliardi. The price paid for it was 
$100. 

Statue of Alexander Hamilton. Dr. 
Horatio Stone, of Washington city, 
executed this statue in Rome. It 
arrived from Italy in 1868, and cost $10,000. 

Tbe Bronze Statue of Thomas Jefferson^ by David d'Angers, a French sculptor, was 
presented to Congress by Lieutenant Uriah P. Levy, U. S. Navy, in 1834, but was not 
formally accepted by Government until 1873. It stood, long ago, in the Rotunda, and 
after its removal from there was placed in front of the President's House, a position it 
occupied for many years. After its acceptance, upon the motion of Senator Sumner it 
was finally located in the old Hall. This bronze was cast by Honore Gonon et ses deux f Is. 

THE PORTRAITS. These are a Mosaic of Mr. Lincoln, presented by Signor 
Salviati of Venice. Signor Salviati is the great manufacturer of mosaic work in Italy. 
The probable mercantile value of this mosaic is about $1,000. 

A portrait of Joshua R. Giddings, by Miss C. L. Ransom. Cost, $1,000. 
'' A likeness of Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, born 1737, died 1832; the last surviving 
signer of the Declaration of Independence. Painted by Chester Harding. Cost, $500. 

In 1872 a portrait of Gunning Bedford^ a member of the Continental Congress from 
Delaware, was presented by the heirs of the family to Government. 




STATUS OF LINCOLN. 



82 Roosts Companion and Guide 

A portrait of Thomas yeffenon^ by Sully — an original, esteemed an admirable pltture-* 
placed here in 1875. Cost, $200. 

A portrait of Benjamin Westy painted by himself, is also a recent addition. 

An original portrait of General Washington^ by Stuart, purchased in 1876, by the 
Joint Committee on the Library, from ex-Senator Chesnut, of Camden, S. C, for $1,200. 

STATUARY FURNISHED BY THE STATES. Rhode Island con- 
tributed the first of all the States the permitted quota, viz : Major-General Nathaniel 
Greene^ born 174a, died 1786. The sculptor was Henry K. Brown. The work ia 
dated Rome, 1869, Aug. 6. And Roger Williams, the pioneer-apostle of liberty of re- 
ligious opinion; born 1606, died 1683. The artist was Franklin Simmons, of R. I. 
The marble was cut in Rome. Date, 1870. 

Connecticut was the next to send her marble representation. One is Jonathan Trum- 
bull, the last colonial governor of the State, who became a tower of strength to the revo- 
lutionary movement. Born 1710; died 1785. He was the father of the painter, CoU 
Trumbull j he also was the intimate friend of Washington, and because of their familiar 
intercourse Washington applied to him the soubriquet of Brother Jonathan. The other 
is Roger Sherman, the shoemaker, afterward lawyer, judge, delegate to Congress, one of 
the Committee of Five, and signer of the Declaration of Independence. Born 17215 
died 1793. The artist, £. £. Ives, a native of Connecticut, made both these statues in 
Rome. They were formally unveiled February, 1872. 

New York has sent in bronze George Clinton, who died at Washington city in 18 1 2, 
Vice-President U. S. Artist, Henry R.Brown; 1873. Founders, Robert Wood & 
Co., Philadelphia. And Robert R. Livingston, one of the Committee of Five who pre- 
sented the Report, but who was not a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He 
was the first chancellor of the State of New York, and administered the oath of office to 
President Washington. He was also Minister to France when the purchase of Louisiana 
was completed. E. D. Palmer, artist; 1874. Cast by F. Barbedienne, founder, Paris. 

Gov. John Wintbrop is a contribution from the State of Massachusetts. By Richard 
Greenough, the brothsr of Horatio Greenough. And Samuel Adams, who has been 
proudly denominated " The Father of the Revolution." George Clymer wrote of him 
in 1773 : " All good men should erect a statue to him in their hearts." Samuel Adams 
was born in Boston, Sept. 22, 1722; died October 2, 1803. He was a cousin of John 
Adams, second President of the United States. 

Col. Ethan Allen, the hero of Ticonderoga, is one of the statues sent from Vermont, 
and Jacob Collamer, a U. S. Senator, the other. 

Ohio has contributed James A. Garfield, a bright light and brave leader. President 
of the U. S., and William Allen, Governor and U. S. Senator, 

Richard Stockton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and the brave General 
Philip Kearny, are from New Jersey. 

Governor Wm. King. The State of Maine has sent as her first gift to this silent as- 
sembly the statue of her earliest governor. Gov. King was born at Scarborough, Me., 
in 1768. He was president of the convention which framed the constitution of his 
native State. Maine was admitted a member of the Federal Union March 15, 1820, 
It was formed from territory of Massachusetts. Franklin Simmons, artist, 1877. 

Col. Edward D. Baker. This statue was ordered by Congress, and cost $10,000. 
Born in England, of poor parents, Col. Baker came a boy to this country, where, with 
his father, he worked at weaving. He eventually became a Senator of the U. S. fironi 
Oregon, and died at Ball's Bluff, near Leesburg, gallantly fighting rebellion at the head 
of his regiment, Oct. 21, 18 61. The artist was Horatio Stone, and thi« itAtue wai 
the last work of his graceful chisel. Doctor Stone died in Italy in 1 875. 



to Washington and Vicinity, 43 

CENTENNIAL SAFE. In this hall stands a large fire-proof safe filled with 
records of national interest, relative to the close of our first centennial era. The safe is 
permanently closed, and not to be opened until 1976. 

Passing out of the Old Hall through the south door we enter the House Extension of 
the Capitol. 

THE NEW HALL OF REPRESENTATIVES is in the centre of that 
Extension. The chamber is 139 feet long, 93 feet wide, and 36 feet high. It has a 
gallery on its four sides capable of having crowded into it 1,200 persons. Portions are 
allotted to the diplomatic corps and reporters of the press. There are also divisions for 
the families of the Cabinet officers, Senators, and Representatives j the remainder is for 
visitors. 

The ceiling is of iron, gilded and bronzed, and is supported by trusses from the roof. 
Its centre is a skylight, panelled with glass ; in each panel is painted the arms of a State. 

Seats for the members, with desks in front of them, are ranged in successive semicir- 
cles facing the Speaker's desk. In front of it sit the various clerks and phonographic 
reporters. 

A full length likeness of Washington, by Vanderlyn, which cost $2,500, is on one 
side of the Speaker's chair, and on the other side is a likeness of Gen. Lafayette, by Ary 
Scheffer, which was presented to Congress by the artist about i824-'25. 

A fresco by Brumidi, representing " Gen. Washington refusing Lord Cornwallis' re- 
quest for an armistice at Yorktown, just before the final surrender," occupies a portion 
of the wall west of the portrait of Lafayette. 

Two paintings by Bierstadt, one on each side of the Speaker's desk, also ornament 
the wall. One is the " First Landing of Henry Hudson," and the other the " Discov- 
ery of California." 

The artist received $10,000 for each. 

Corridors, paved with English Minton tiles, surround the Hall, and afford entrance to 
various rooms for the officers of the House and the use of committees. The rooms .xt 
accessible when the Committees are not in session. 

Staircases of Tennessee marble on the east and west sides of the Hall lead to the gal- 
leries. 

On the wall, above the western staircase, i» Leutze's picture of " Western Emigra- 
tion." Cost $20,000. 

At the foot of this staircase is a bust, in bronze, of a Chippewa Indian chief, " The 
Bufiklo." 

A large picture on canvas by F. B. Carpenter, " Lincoln's War Cabinet " or the 
" Proclamation of Emancipation," occupies the same position above the eastern stair- 
case. 

It was presented to the United States by Mrs. Elizabeth Thompson February 12, 
1878, and cost $25,000. On the occasion of its acceptance the Hon. Alex. H. Ste- 
vens, Ex- Vice- President of the so-called Confederate States, was one of the orators ap- 
pointed by Congress to receive the picture. 

At the foot of this staircase stands a statue of Thomas Jefferson, by Powers j it cost 
$10,000. 

Various committee-rooms and rooms for newspaper and telegraphic uses are situated 
in the upper story of the Extension, to which we now ascend. 

There is also from here access to the Library of the House, which occupies the story 
above the communicating corridor leading from the Old Hall. 

© We will now descend to the ground-floor. This is occupied by committee-rooms, 
dosctSi bath and store-rooms, the folding-room, House Restaurant, etc., etc. 



24 lioosf^s Companion and Guide 

Beneath is the heating and ventilating apparatus. The engineer will explain how 
cool and hot air is forced into the building. 

THE CRYPT. Beneath the Rotunda is the Crypt, so called from its resemblance 
to the chambers of that name in cathedrals. It has numerous pillars, supporting groined 
arches, and is dimly lighted. 

THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS occupies the western projection of the 
original Capitol, and access is obtained to it from the Rotunda by the west door. 

These beautiful halls were designed by Thos. U. Walter. They are of iron, includ- 
ing shelves ; the floors are laid with encaustic tiles j consequently all is fire-proof. The 
centre hall is 91 feet long, 34 feet wide, and 38 feet high. The side halls are 95 feet 
long and 29^ feet wide. 

The Library of Congress originated in 1800, and from that time until 1 8 14 the num- 
ber of volumes comprised about 3,000. It was destroyed by the British in that year, 
when they set fire to the Capitol. 

Mr. Jefferson's library, then considered one of the finest in the country, was pur- 
chased by Congress for $23,950 in 18 15, and became the nucleus of a new collection, 
which, in 1851, comprised 55,000 volumes. Dec. 25 of that year, a fire, originating 
from timbers carelessly exposed to fiues, consumed 35,000 volumes, besides works of art, 
coins, etc., etc. 

The number of volumes in the Library in 1874 was 274,157 volumes and 50,000 
pamphlets. Jan. I, 1876, the volumes reported were 293,507, and 60,000 pamphlets. 
In 1888, the aggregate was 600,000 volumes, besides about 200,000 pamphlets. 

Although designed especially for the use of Congress and Government officials, any 
visitor over sixteen years of age can obtain books to read, only in the Library^ by filling 
one of the blanks to be found on the tables, and presenting it at the Librarian's desk. 

On the ground-floor, underneath the Supreme Court-room, is the law branch of the 
Library. The vestibule to this apartment is famous for its ornamentation of corn-stalk 
columns, with capitals of opening ears of corn. This room was once occupied by the 
Supreme Court of the United States. 

SUPREME COURT-ROOM OF THE UNITED STATES. This 
chamber is situated in what was the north wing of the original Capitol, and occupies the 
eastern side of that portion of the building. It was the old United States Senate Cham- 
ber. It is semicircular, 75 feet long, 45 feet high, and its greatest width 45 feet. It 
ia ornamented with columns of Potomac marble, and has a dome ceiling. Around the 
semicircular wall are brackets, on which are placed the busts of deceased Chief- Justices. 
The room is beautifully carpeted. 

The rooms in its vicinity are appropriated to the officers and judges of the Supreme 
Court. 

In the robing-room hangs a portrait of Chief- Justice Marshall, by Rembrandt Peale, 
a companion-picture to his Washington. This portrait was presented to Chief- Justice 
Chase by the bar of New York, and at his death was bequeathed by him to the Supreme 
Court of the United States. 

In this room is also a portrait by Gilbert Stuart of the first Chief- Justice, John Jay, 
arrayed in a black-satin robe with broad scarlet facings. This picture was recently a 
gift to the Court by his grandson, John Jay, late minister to Austria. 

A portrait of Taney by Healy is also here, which was presented by the Washington 
Bar Association. 

This room contains admirable specimens of antique furniture. 

Leaving the Supreme Court-room, we pass into the Senate Extension, in the centre of 
which is the 



to Washington and Vicinity 25 

SENATE CHAMBER. In general arrangement and appearance this Chamber 
resembles the Hall of Representatives, though smaller. It is 112 feet long and 82 feet 
wide. The desks of the Senators are of highly-polished mahogany. In the skylight 
are painted symbols of Progress, the Union, the Army, the Navy, and the Mechanical 
Arts. 

Immediately north of the Senate Chamber are three rooms oi great beauty; the most 
westerly one is 

THE PRESIDENT'S ROOM. Dimensions, 23 feet 2 mches by 21 feet 8 inches, 
with a canopy ceiling. The whole room is elaborately decorated in fresco and distemper. 
On the walls are the portraits of President Washington and his Cabinet. The ceiling ii 
covered with allegorical illustrations of Religion, Liberty, Executive Power, and Legisla- 
tive Authority, with portraits of Columbus, Americus Vespucius, Wm. Brewster, and 
Benj. Franklin. The floor is tiled, but in winter is covered with a rich carpet. In this 
room, towards the close of a session of Congress, the President affixes his signature to 
bills. 

THE MARBLE ROOM. The walls of this room aie of polished Tennessee mar- 
ble and plate-glass. Four Corinthian columns of Italian marble support the ceiling. Its 
length is 38 feet 7 inches, 19^ feet high, and width 2i feet 8 inches. It is used as a 
retiring-room by the Senators. 

THE VICE-PRESIDENT'S ROOM is of the same size as the President's, but 
the walls are unadorned. It is beautifully furnished, and here is hung Rembrandt Peale's 
celebrated likeness of Washington, which adorned the old Senate Chamber, and cost, in 
1832, $2,000. Vice-President Wilson died in this room October, 1875. 

LADIES' RECEPTION ROOM. This is elaborate in ornamentation, and its 
purpose is to provide a place where ladies may obtain interviews with Senators. It is 
situated east of the three rooms last described, and next it is the room of the Sergeant- 
at-Arms of the Senate, and also 

THE SENATE POST-OFFICE. This is admirably furnished for use. The 
ceiling was painted by Brumidi at a cost of $5,000. On it is represented History, Ge- 
ography, Physics, and the Telegraph. 

We will now enter the hall leading to the east Senate Extension Portico, and ar- 
rive at 

THE CRAWFORD BRONZE DOOR. This door illustrates Revolution- 
ary and Federal history, and cost for models $6,000; for casting, $50,495.11. One 
valve is War and the other Peace. 

At the top of the War valve is the *' Battle of Bunker Hill and Death of Warren, 
'775*" The next panel is the "Battle of Monmouth and Rebuke of Gen. Charles 
Lee, the traitor, 1778." Then, again, below is " Yorktown — the gallantry of Hamilton, 
1 78 1 ;" and at the bottom of the daor is a Hessian soldier in death struggle with an 
American. 

At the foot of the Peace valve is an allegorical representation of the blessings of Peace. 
Then, above it, is the " Ovation to Washington at Trenton, 1789." Next above that, 
"The First Inauguration of President Washington, 1789;" and in the top panel is 
pictured " The Laying of the Corner-stone of the United States Capitol, September 3, 

I793-" 

The door was cast at Chicopee, Mass., by James T, Ames. 

Above the door is a group in marble of History and Justice. 

THE SENATE EXTENSION PORTICO, of which this is the door, has 
over its centre, in detached figures, an illustration of the " Progress of Americin Civiliga- 
tion and the Decadence of the Indian R^ce?," 



26 ^ Roosts Companion and Guide 

The centre figure is America. On her right [south] stands a soldier ; next him is Commerce 
— a merchant; then comes Youth — two boys ; Education succeeds — a schoolmaster, with a boT 
pipil ; next, a Mechanic, resting against a wheel; and then are an Anchor and a Wheat Sheat, 
* hich fill the rapidly narrowing space of the pediment. 

On the left [north] of America is a Pioneer settler chopping a tree ; then a Hunter; next him 
sits an Indian chief; beside him is an Indian woman with a babe; and then, again, filling up 
the narrow space on this side, is an Indian grave. These figures were modelled by Crawford. 
He was paid for them, including the cost of Justice and History, ^20,000. The additional cost 
for cutting amounted to ^29,150. 

We will now return to the interior of the Senate extension, and traverse again the 
beautiful hall, adorned with pillars and lined with scaglioni marble, communicating with 
the Portico. 

At the foot of the east staircase of the Senate is a statue of Franklin^ by Hiram Pow- 
ers ; cost $10,000, 

On the wall hangs Powell's picture of the Battle of Lake ErUy September 10, 1813 j 
cost $25,000. 

Ascending the stairs, we find magnificent corridors, paved with encaustic tiles, sur- 
rounding three sides of the Senate galleries. 

In this story, in a vestibule opposite the entrance to the ladies' gallery, hang two pic- 
tures by Thomas Moran, on canvas, of the Canon of the Telloivstone and the Canon of tit 
Colorado. Each cost $10,000. 

// Penserosa, a beautiful female figure in marble, purchased by the Joint Committee 
on the Library, by Mozier, cost $2,000, is also placed here. 

In the wide corridor north of this Vestibule are two pictures on canvas, one is an 
* Equestrian likeness of Gen. Scotty by the late Edward Troye. It was ordered for the 
purpose of being placed in the Military Institute of Virginia at Lexington, and the artist 
was to have received $25,000 for it, but it was not completed until the fall of 1861. 
After the secession of Virginia the picture was left unpaid for in the possession of Mr. 
Troye, who long vainly endeavored to procure its purchase by the Federal Government. 

There was a special house erected at West Point for the artist to work in. General 
Scott selected the horse, position, time, uniform, and equipments, and sat for the artist 
almost daily for several months. The scene is laid at Chapultepec. 

The other is a full-length portrait of Henry Clay^ by Nagle. Cost $1,500. 

This picture was painted at the instance of certain friends of Mr. Clay, and it was sup- 
poed the legislature of his State would pay for it. This expectation was not realized, 
and the artist died without receiving any remuneration. It was purchased by the Joint 
C ommittee of the Library from the artist's son. Mr. Clay, it is said, regarded this pic- 
ti re as an excellent likeness, and was disappointed because it was not purchased at once 
>» r his friends. 

Over the west staircase of the Senate, which is of white marble, hangs the picture of 
"ihe Storming of CbapultepeCy by James Walker j cost $6,000. This picture was origi- 
I illy painted for a panel in the Committee-room of Military Affairs of the House, and 
d »ubtless will eventually be placed there. 

At the foot of this staircase is a statue of yohn Hancock^ by Dr. Stone; cost $5,500. 

GROUND FLOOR OF THE SENATE EXTENSION. Thb, like 
the same story of the House Extension, contains a Restaurant, Bath and Committee- 
rooms, etc., etc. 

Beneath this story is the heating and ventilating apparatus, by means of which the 
Senate is heated and cooled. To many this is a most interesting portion of the Capitol 
to visit, and strangers are invariably treated with politeness and their questions answered 
by the employes in charge. 

3 THE CAPITOL POLICE. The Capitol police consists of a representative ao- 
point?4 from c^ch ^ta^?. Th? oflicer? arc a captain and three lieutenants. ^ 



to Washington and Vicinity, 



27 



The duties are to preserve order within the Capitol and grounds ; to protect the public 
property from injury ; enforce all prescribed rules ; also to extend to visitors proper cour- 
tesies, and furnish them with all desired information. 

HISTORY OF THE BUILDING OF THE CAPITOL. The corner- 
stone of the Capitol was laid with Masonic ceremonies September 18, 1793, by Master 
Mason George Washington, President of the United States. 

The plan app-oved of was that of Doctor Wm. Thornton, born in the West Indies, 
an amateur civil engineer and draftsman. The practical architect first employed in its 
erection was Stephen Hallet, a Frenchman, who modified Thornton's plan and substi- 
tuted some features of his own, which displeased Thornton, who possessed the ear of the 
President, and eventually became a commissioner. Hallet was dismissed. Hoban, the 
architect of the President's House, was then put in charge for a short period. 

An Englishman, Mr. George Hadfield, was afterwards employed, and he, in conjunc- 
tion with Hoban, succeeded in getting the north wing ready for occupation in 1800. The 
Senate, House of Representatives, Supreme Court, and Library were accommodated in 
the one wing. 

Mr. Hadfield, however, became discontented and resigned his position. In 1803, Mr. 
Henry B. Latrobe, an Englishman of Huguenot descent, was his successor, and by him 
the south wing was completed. In 1814 the British burned out the two wings. The 
space now occupied by the Rotunda, up to that period, was only a wooden scaffolding, 
which united the two portions of the building. 

Latrobe was employed to rebuild the wings, and also to design and erect the Rotunda 
and Dome. Becoming dissatisfied, he resigned in 18 17. Mr. Charles Bulfinch, of Bos- 
ton, an American, was his successor. 

The foundation of the Rotunda was laid March 2, i8i8. The Capitol, including the 
Rotunda and the first low-arched Dome, was considered finished in 1827. Mr. Bulfinch, 
after accomplishing his work, returned to Boston. 

The corner-* 
stone of the 
Extension was 
laid in 1851, 
July 4. Daniel 
Webster made 
the oration. 
M r . Thomas 
U. Walter, of 
Pennsylvania, 
designed and 
erected the Ex- 
tension (north 
and south) and 
the new Dome. 
The architect 
in charge is Mr. 
Edward Clark, 
formerly a pupil 
of Mr. Walter. 
The cost of the 
Capitol to present date has been about $15,000,000. 

THE BOTANICAL GARDEN is immediately west of the Capitol, lying be- 




BOTANICAL GARDBW. 



sS Roos^ Companim mtif ^^&^ 

tv/seii Maryland and Pennsylvania avenues. It contains a conservatory JOO Act tonsw 
There are, besides, ten smaller conservatories. The first buildings were erected in 1850. 
This portion of Reservation No. 2 was very early, in intention, set apart for a Botanical 
Garden. It remained, however, as late as 1849, almost a swamp, a chief cause of ague 
around the Capitol. The tide still ebbs and flows here in a large sewer covering Tiber 
Creek. 

The Bartboldi Fountain^ so much admired at the Centennial Exhibition, was purchased 
by Government for $6,000, and is placed here north of the large conservatory. . 

RKSBRVATIONS. There were originally set apart for various purposes seven- 
teen reservations, designated in the early maps by figures from i to 17. Most of them 
still remain, with slight modifications, in possession of the Government. Their whole 
original area was 541 acres i rood 29 perches. Their present area is about 513 acres. 

Ret, I — The President's Grounds. — This includes the surroundings of the Executive 
Mansion, extending from Lafayette Square on the north to the mouth of Tiber creek, in 
the neighborhood of the Washington Monument. On it are the Presidential Mansion, 
the Treasury, the War, Navy, and State Departments. 83 acres i rood 22 perches. 

Res. 2 — The Capitol Grounds. — This is the Mall, with the East and West Capitol 
Parks ; its western line is 14th st. west. On it are the Capitol, the Botanical Garden, 
the Smithsonian Institution, and the Agricultural Department } to this list we are sorry 
to add the depot of the Baltimore and Potomac railroad. Original area, 227 acres 8 
perches. 

>Res. 3 — The Park. — Bounded by 14th st. west on one side and the Potomac river on 
the other. This reservation is occupied by the Washington Monument and the Gov- 
ernment nurseries. 29 acres 3 roods 9 perches. Here, also, is located the building oc- 
cupied by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. This bureau was previously accom- 
modated in the attic story of the Treasury Department. Its estimated cost was $600,- 
000 ; its actual expense has, however, somewhat exceeded that sum. 

Res. 4 — The University Square. — On this reservation is situated the United States 
Naval Observatory. 21 acres 18 perches. 

Res. 5 — The Arsenal Grounds. — This is at the foot of 4J st. west, and is the most 
southern portion of Washington City. In 1857 this plat was extended by purchase. In 
the Penitentiary which stood here, but which has since been replaced by officers* quarters, 
the conspirators adjudged guilty of Mr. Lincoln's murder were tried, and afterwards hung 
within its walls. 

Res. 6 — TFest Market-Street Square, — This is at the foot of 20th and 21st sts. west, 
and is now covered with water. 

Res. 7 — Centre Market Square. — Occupied by the principal market in the cityj 7th to 
9th St. west, facing Penna. ave. 

Res. 8 — National Church Square. — Now occupied by Patent Office. Area, 4 acres 22 
perches. [See article. Patent Office, in this volume.] 

Res. 9 — Judiciary Square. — The site of the Court-House and surrounding grounds. 

Res. 10 — North of Pennsylvania avenue, between 3d and 4^ sts. west. Congress un- 
wisely granted to the corporation the privilege of selling this reservation in lots to pay for 
the removal of the canal and to fill up the low grounds. 

Res. II — Between B and C sts, north and 2d and 3d sts. west. Disposed of for the 
same purpose as Res. 10. ^ 

Res. 12 — North of Pennsylvania avenue, between 2d and 3d sts. west. Disposed of 

of the same as Nos. 10 and 11. Area, 1 1 acres 29 perches, of the reservations 10, 1 1, 12. 

) Res. 13 — Hospital Square. — Between B and G sts. south, and 19th and the Anacostia 

cast. Area, 77 acres 26 perches. On it are the Washington Asylum and District Jail, 



i8r WasHiH^n and Pidntty, 



29 



Res. 14 — The Navy-Yard. — Area, 12 acres 3 roods 15 perches. 

Rei. 15 and 16 — Eastern Market-House Square. — Near the Navy-yard, granted for 
market-house purposes. Area of the two reservations, a acres i rood 4 perches. 

Res. 17 — Toivn- House Square. — This is southeast of the Capitol, 3d st., and South 
Capitol St., where New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia avenues 
intersect, making an irregular plat with an area of 21 acres i rood 29 perches. The old 
Duddington Manor-House, the residence of the Carroll family, fronts upon it. The 
Carroll spring, famous during the war times, is located here. 

SQUARBS, Etc. There are a number of open squares in Washington City, be- 
eMcs those already alluded to as reservations ; most of them are formed by the diverging 
lines of avenues intersecting other avenues and streets ; they are of various sizes. 

Lying West of the Capitol. McPherson S'quare is formed by the intersection of Ver- 
mont avenue, 1 5th, I and K sts. n. w.j 
area, l acre 2 roods. The equestrian 
itatue of Gen. McPherson is erected 
here. The cost of the pedestal on 
which it stands was $15,000. This 
sum was contributed by Government. 
The cost of the statue proper was de- 
frayed by the Society of the Army of 
the Tennessee. 
) Farragut Square is at the intersec- 
tion of Connecticut avenue, 17th, I 
and K sts. n. w.; area, the same as 
McPherson Square. In this square 
is the colossal statue of Admiral Far- 
ragut, by Miss Ream, for which 
$20,000 was voted by Congress, 
April 16, 1872. 

Massachusetts and Rhode Island avenues intersect 
N St. and i6th st. half a mile immediately north of 
the President's House, forming an open space of about 
an acre in extent. This square is known as Scott 
Place, and is noted for the colossal equestrian bronze 
statue of Gen. Scott, which occupies its centre. The 
statue was designed by H. K. Brown, of New York, 
and cast by Robert Wood & Co., of Philadelphia. It 
weighs 12,000 lbs,, cost $20,000,* weight of granite 
pedestal, over 320 tons. The cost of the pedestal was 
$53,000. 

Franklin Square is bounded by 13th and 14th sts. 
west and by I and K sts. north. Government pur- 
chased this plat in 1829, because of its containing a 
fine spring, from which the President's House and 
Executive offices were supplied with water by pipes as 
early as 1832. The supply is still from this source. 

) Rawlins Square, on New York avenue, southArest of 
the President's House, between 18th and 19th sts. n. w. 

•COTT. 




M PHERSON, 




30 



R9$s^i Companion and Guide 



Opposite the west wing of the Centre Market, Penn. Ave. and 9th st. n.w., is the bronse 
statue of Gen. John A. Rawlins, who died while Secretary of War. It cost $10,000. 

Mount Vernon Place, at the intersection of K and 8th sts. n. w. with Mass. and N. 
Y. avenues. A beautiful fountain occupies the centre. 

Fourteenth-street Circle, at the intersection of Massachusetts and Vermont avenues 
and 14th and M sts. n. w., is beautifully laid out, and the centre is now occupied by an 
equestrian statue of Major-General Geo. H. Thomas, contributed by the Society of the 
Army of the Cumberland. Government appropriated $25,000 for the pedestal on 
which the statue stands. The artist was Mr. J. J^. A. Ward j cast by Bureau Brothers & 

Heaton, Phila.5 
sum paid by 
Army of the 
Cumb erland, 
$40,000. 

Iowa Circle 
is at the inter- 
section of Ver- 
m o n t and 
Rhode Island 
avenues and P 
and 13th sts. 
n. w. 

The Wash- 
ington Circle is 
at the intersec- 
tion of Pennsyl- 
vania and New 
Hampshire av- 
enues and K and 
Z'jd sts. n. w., 

THOMAS. ^ ^ ' 

near George- 
Here is the equestrian bronze statue of Gen. Washington, by Clark Mills } cost 

$50,000. Cast 
out of captured 
guns donated by 
Congress. 

Dupont StatuCy 
Circle at inter- 
section of Con- 
necticut, Massa- 
chusetts, and 
New Hampshire 
avenues, at 19th 
and P sts. n. w. 

Luther Statue^ 
I4thst. andVer- 
mont avenue. 

Lying east of 
the Capitol. Stan- 
ton Place is at 
^ » ^ tke intersectioo 

4KBSIDn<CK OP BRITISH MINISTER.^' ^ 





WASHINGTON. 



town. 




to Washington and Vicinity, 



3* 



o\ Maryland and Massachusetts avenues at 5th st. n. e.j area, 3 acres I rood. An 
equestrian statue of Maj.-Gen. Nathaniel Greene, by Henry FC, Brown, stands within 
this space. The artist received $50,000. The Continental Congress voted a monu- 
ment to Gen. Greene j and this statue, after the lapse of almost a century, is the virtual 
fulfilment of that -resolution. It was put in position in 1877. 

Major-General Greene was a highly distinguished revolutionary soldier. After Boston was 
evacuated he was entrusted with the defence of Long Island, and appointed major-general. He 
was present at Trenton, at Princeton, and at Brandywine ; and in the battle of Germantown he 
commanded the left wing which penetrated into the village. At Monmouth, at Tiverton Heights, 
and at the battle of Springfield, he also rendered distinguished services. He was president of 
the court of inquiry upon Major Andre, and was appointed to succeed Arnold at West Point, 
which command he held but a few days. He succeeded General Gates in the command of the 
Southern army. Congress presented him with a gold medal and a British standard for the battle 
of Eutaw springs, and two of the cannon taken from tlje enemy. North and South Carolina and 
Georgia made him valuable grants of property. He aied at Mulberry Grove, on the Savannah 
river, Georgia, June 13, 1786. 

Lincoln Square is one mile directly 
east of the Capitol. Massachusetts, 
North Carolina, Tennessee, and Ken- 
tucky avenues here intersect between 
I ith and 1 3th sts. Originally it was 
intended to erect an HistorU Column 
on this spot, which was also to serve 
as a Mile or Itinerary Column^ from 
which all geographical distances in 
the United States were to be meas- 
ured. Instead, however, is placed 
here the bronze group of Emancipa- 
tionj representing President Lincoln 
breaking the fetters of the slave, erect- 
ed by the freedmen. Cost $17,000 ; 
inaugurated April 14, 1876; designed 
by Thomas Bell ; cast at Munich by 
Von Muller, Jr. 

THE AVENUES. The ave- 
nues constitute a feature in the plan 
of Washington city calculated to con- 
fuse a stranger, and to cause him at 
first to wonder much at their exist- 
ence. An early authority says : * 

" The positions for the different edi- 
fices, and for the several squares and 
areas, as laid down by the ' Geographer 
General,' Andrew ElUcott, [the contem- 
porary and successor of Major L'En- 
fant,] were first determined on the most 
advantageous ground, commanding the 
most extensive prospects, and the better 
susceptible of such improvements as either use or ornament may require. Lines of direct 
communication have been devised to connect the most distant objects -with the principal by a 
direct co^nmunication with the main, and preserving through the whole a reciprocity of sight 
and the most favorable ground for convenience and prospect." 

L'Enfant, the originator of the idea, had, without doubt, the approaches to the palace 
of Versailles in his thoughts when he conceived this feature in his plan of the FederaJ 

• jQOatii^ EUiptt in " Historical Sketches of the Tea Miles Scjuare," pp. ^8, ^q. 




BMANCIFATION. 



33 Roosts Companion and Guide 

City, as in many respects they are almost a reproduction of the lines of those renowned 

alleci. 

The avenues are named after twenty-one of the States. To the old original Thirteen 
are added the names of Vermont, admitted 179I} Kentucky, 1792 j Tennessee, 1796; 
Ohio, 180Z) Louisiana, i8iz; Indiana, 1816; Maine, 1820, and Missouri 1821. Of 
course, the avenues named after the later States were not contemplated in the original 
draft, and their introduction has not been, in the opinion of several recent writers, any 
improvement. 

To attempt to describe the course of the various avenues would bewilder rather than 
instruct the reader. A reference to a map of Washington can alone enable the visitor 
to obtain any intelligent idea of the lines of their various directions. It might be well, 
however, to contradict a general error, often ignorantly asserted, that the avenues all 
radiate from the Capitol or the President's House. Although many of them diverge 
from these prominent buildings, quite a number of avenues do not approach either of 
them. 

In 1 87 1 Executive avenue was devised. It encloses a portion of the grounds attached 
to the President's House, extending from 15^ to 16J sts., and forms a semicircle south 
of the mansion ; a broad single road starting from this centre, due south, enters the Drive 
opposite the Monument Grounds. 

As a general rule, until within a few years the Public Buildings were accessible daily 
to visitors from 9 A. M. to 3 P. M. The increase of service demanded in the various 
Departments has caused some change in this arrangement, and the following regulations, 
subject perhaps to slight temporary changes dependent upon an increase of work in a par- 
ticular Bureau or Department, are now observed. A knowledge of them will enable a 
stranger who is pressed for time to plan his round of visits with greater satisfaction to 
himself: 

The Capitol is open during daytime every day excepting Sunday, and at night time 
when Congress has a night session. The Congressional Library from 9 A. M. to 4 P. M., 
and the Botanical Garden every week day. 

At the President's House, the East-Room is open every week day from lo A. M. to 
3 P. M. 

We will mention the other more important places in alphabetical order : 

Agricultural Building is open from 9 A. M. to 3 P. M.j also, the Army Medical 
Museum. Arlington Cemetery is open every day, Sunday included. 

Corcoran Art-Gallery, 17th st. and Pennsylvania avenue n. w., is open daily from 10 
A. M. to 4 P. M. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are fay days. The three other 
days, admission is frte. 

Insane Asylum is open on Wednesdays from 2 to 6 P. M. 

Interior Department, including the Model-Room, Patent Office, is open daily from 9 
A. M. to 4 P. M. The Department of Justice is also open until 4 P. M. 

Navy Department is open daily from 9 A. M. to 4 P. M. The Navy Yard is open 
daily from 9 A. M. to sunset. 

Smithsonian Institution, open daily from 9 A. M. to 4 P. M. 

Soldiers' Home is open daily from 9 to dark. Carriages admitted to the grounds . 

State Department, open daily, except on Thursdays, (appropriated to fbreign diplomat!,) 
from 10 A. M. to 1 P. M. 

Treasury Department is open from 9 A. M. to 2 P. M. 
► War Department is open from 9 A. M. to 3 P. M. 
P|1^§IPENT'S HOUS^. The President's House \% about a wile zjA a h»lf 



to Washington and Vicinity, 




BXBCurrvB mansion, north fkont. 



from the Capitol, 
in a direction 
west by north. 
It stands be- 
tween 15th and 
17th sts. n. w., 
on a high pla- 
teau, where 
Pen nsyl vania 
and New York 
avenues inter- 
sect, and front- 
ing it is Lafayette 
Square. It is 
built of a yel- 
lowish freestone 
painted white, 
a*nd is popularly 
known as The 
White House. 

It is two sto- 
ries high, 170 
feet long, and 

with a portico 86 feet wide, oa the north, supported by eight pillars, under which carriagea 
can drive. The south front has a semicircular colonnade of six columns in the centre. 
A conservatory 
adjoins the house 
on the west. 

The building 
is said to have 
been modelled 
after the palace 
of the Duke of 
Leinster, in 
Dublin. The 
architect was 
James Hoban, 
a n Irishman, 
who came to 
Washington 
from Charles- 
ton, South Caro- 
lina. 

) F ir St floor. 
The north door 
opens into a ves- 
tibule 40 by 50 
teet, divided by 
a sash screen ; 




UXBCIITIVK MANSION, SOUTH PKONT. 



within the screen arc portiaits of several Presidents of the United States. Throughout 
|hc Mansion arc portraits of all the cx-Prcsidcnts, excepting Buchanan and Tohn?Q^, 



34 



Roosts Companion and Guide 



The East-Room, occupying the eastern side of the house, is 80 by 40 feet, and 22 
feet high. The ceiling is divided into three panels, beautifully decorated. The chande- 
liers, mirrors, and furniture are of the most elegant description. It is, as a rule, accessi- 
ble to the public. 

Adjoining the East-Room, west, is the Green-Room, facing the south, so called from 
the dominant color of its furniture, all of which is exceedingly beautiful j 30 by 20 feet. 
Then succeeds the Blue-Room. This is of oval shape, with windows looking south- 
ward ; and, as its name indicates, is furnished in blue and gold ; 40 by 30 feet. This is 
the room in which, at le-vees^ the President receives his guests. 

The room next, still facing south, which brings you gradually towards the wester^ 
side of the house, is the Red-Room. This room is used more commonly by the presi- 
dential family, and has somewhat of a home look about it j 30 by 20 feet. 

Then, in the southwest portion of the house, is the State Dining-Room, 40 by 30 feet. 
This is fitted up in admirable style, and is only used on state occasions. The private 
dining-room is north of the state dining-room. 

Second Floor. The east part is occupied by the Executive offices, ante-rooms, and the 
President's office. In this last the Cabinet meets. It is spacious, and commands a beauti- 
ful view looking south. Adjoining it is the library. The rooms occupied by the family 
are in the south and western portions of the house, and are mainly used as bed-chambers. 
Basement Floor. This contains the kitchens, servants' quarters, store-rooms, and de- 
positories for coal, etc. 

History. The corner-stone of the President's House was laid October 1 3, 1792; archi- 
tect, James Hoban. It was first occupied in 1800, by President John Adams, but was 
then in an unfinished condition. The building cost, up to 1814, $333,207. August 
24, of that year, the President's House was burned by the British. It was authorized to 
be rebuilt in 18 15. Mr. Hoban was again charged with its erection, accordiag to the 
original plan, and its re-erection cost $301,496.25. It was first again occupied by Presi- 
dent Monroe. 

The Stables and Conservatory attached to the President's House cost $72,079.82. 

LAFAYETTE SQUARE. This beautiful 
square is in front (north) of the White House, and 
includes seven acres. Two bronze vases, the copy of 
an antique, seven feet high, and weighing each 1,300 
lbs., ornament the grounds. 

The Equestrian Statue of Gen. Andreiv Jackson^ de- 
signed and cast by Clark Mills, is also here. The 
Jackson Monument Association subscribed $12,000, 
and Congress granted captured guns for the casting of 
this statue ; afterwards other appropriations were made, 
including a sum of $20,000, the whole netting about 
$50,000. Its weight is 15 tons. 




lACKSOII |TATV«« 



'0 Washington and Vicinity. 



3? 




In the southeast corner of this square is the colossal statue of the Marquis de Lafayette 
The monument has a great variety of artistic and pleasant views. On the front is a 
female figure representing Freedom tendering all she has to offer — the sword of a soldier. 
On the west side of the shaft are the figures of the Count de Rochambeau and the 
Chevalier Duportail, representing the army, and the Counts D'Estaing and De Grasse 
are on the east side, representing the navy. The monument was projected by the 
American Congress and designed by Messrs. Alexander Falquiere and Antoine Mercie, 
artists of the first rank in France, and is considered the best designed monument in the 
city. The monument and pedestal weigh seventy tons and cost forty five thousand dol- 
lars, which amount was appropriated by Congress. The figure of Lafayette is ten feet 
high, the others nine feet. Height of the monument forty-five feet. The committee 
appointed by Congress, which accepted the design and completed the monument, was : 
Wm. C. Endicott, Secretary of War; Senator Wm. M. Evarts, of New York, and 
Edward Clark, Architect of the Capitol. 

THE STATE DEPARTMENT is located in the south section of the mag- 
nificent structure known as the State, JVar, and Na'vy Departments Building ,• the War 
and Navy Departments occupying the east, north, west, and centre of the building. Mr. 
A. B. Mullett, late Supervising Architect of the Treasury, designed the building, which 
is situated west of the President's House. Open from 9 A . M. to 2 P. M., daily, except on 
Friday — Diplomatic Day — and Sunday. It is 342 feet from east to west, including projec- 



3^ Roose*s Companion and Guide 

tions, etc., and 567 feet from north to south. The style is the Italian renaissancej the 
material of which it is built is granite, brought from Maine and Virginia j the roof b 
mansard. The building was begun in 1871. 

The interior is superbly finished and furnished, and there are documents, etc., deposited 
here of great interest. 

On the second floor are the Reception-room, the Diplomatic Corps ante-room, the 
room of the Secretary of State, to which is also attached an ante-room, and the rooms of 
the Assistant Secretaries and Chief Clerk. 

In the ante-room attached to the Secretary's room are portraits of all the Secretaries, 
from Jefferson to the present incumbent. 

In the ante-room for the use of the Diplomatic Corps is a portrait of the Bey of Tunis, 
presented by himself to Mr. Seward. 

The original Declaration of Independence is in charge of this Department. 

The library, embracing the most complete and valuable collection of works on di- 
plomacy in America, is in the third story, over the south entrance. There are ex- 
tensive files in the Department of American newspapers from 1 78 1. 

THE TREASURY DEPARTMENT is on the east side of the President's 
House. 

It has four fronts, each facing a point of the compass. These, including porticos and 
steps, measure 582 feet by 300 feet. The front first built was the east front} it is of 
Virginia freestone, and presents an extended colonnade. Mr. Robert Mills was the 
architect of this portion of the building. The rest is of granite from Dix Island, Maine. 

The west, north, and south fronts correspond with each other, having each a central 
projecting portico. The architects — Walter, Young, Rogers, and MuUett — were all 
engaged on this splendid edifice. The cost, as stated in a recent report, is $6,837,722.28. 

The Treasury contains 195 rooms, to which is to be added those in the sub-basement, 
used for store-rooms, shops, and those attached to the heating apparatus. 

The Cash-Room is the most beautiful of any in the Treasury, and well worth a visit. 
The display of foreign marbles in this room is very fine, but to an American it would be 
more satisfactory had they been of native origin. 

The Vaults are of steel and chilled iron j they are situated in the northeast part of 
the Treasury. They are about 15 by 20 feet in size. Two of them are in the basement. 

The Photograph OfBce is a small cottage-like looking building opposite the south front 
of the Treasury. Here are photograph fac simi/es of accounts, plans, and elevations of 
public buildings, etc. 

Coast Survey. This building is private property, although built for the special service 
of this office. It is south of the Capitol, on New Jersey avenue, between B and C sts., 
and is an imposing brick structure. 

The object of this office is " the survey of the coasts of the United States on tide- 
water." It originated in 1807, but its actual organization was completed in 1833, 

The standards of weights and measures are kept here, under the care of the Superin- 
tendent. The Coast Survey is attached to the Treasury Department. Its duties, how- 
ever, are mainly discharged " by officers of the army and navy, with the assistance of 
scientific civilians." 

History. In 1 8 14 the U. S. Treasury shared the general fate of the public buildings, 
and was burned on the invasion of the city. The structure again erected for its use oc- 
cupied the site of the southern portion of the present edifice ; it was, however consumed 
by fire March 31, 1833. It is said President Jackson indicated with his cane the site 
of the existing structure. In 1836 it was commenced, and made ready to be occupied 
in 1 841. In 1855 the Extension was begun. The north front was the last one com- 



to Washington and Vicinity, 



37 




38 



Roose*s Companion and Guide 



pleted. At some future time the east facade will probably be replaced by another con- 
forming with the rest of the edifice. 

THE WAR DEPARTMENT. The different bureaus of the War Depart- 
ment are mainly located in the new State^ fVar^ and Navy Departments Buildings facing 
on Seventeenth street and Pennsylvania and Executive avenues. The building cost 
$10,750,000 ; was begun in 1871 and completed in 1887 ; covers ^^ acres, has 2 miles 
of corridors, contains 566 rooms, 5 elevators, and all the modern conveniences. What 
is termed the *' first floor " is the floor to which the grand entrance or porch leads. 
There is a basement and a sub-basement story. The oflice of the Secretary of War is 
in the west wing. The Adjutant General, the Quartermaster General, the Commissary 
General, the Paymaster General, and the Surgeon General are occupants of the build- 
ing. Also, the Ordnance and Engineer Bureaus. 

The Signal Office is on the corner of Twenty-fifth and M streets N. W. 

Winder's Buildings corner of 
Seventeenth and F streets N. W., 
was originally built for a hotel, but 
was purchased and fitted up for the 
use of Government at an expense 
of $246,054.78. It is used by 
the Second Auditor of the Treas- 
ury. 

The Army Medical Museum is 
on the corner of Seventh and B 
streets S. W., east of the National 
Museum. The mueum in the 
eai,t iving contains exhibits of 
wounds and diseases, and to the 
medical student it is interesting be- 
yond description. The clerks of 
a Division of the Surgeon Gener- 
al's Office are located on the first 
floor, west wing, and centre. Ex- 
hibit of army medical supplies, east 
wing The buildings in the court 
are used for anatomical purposes 
andmachinery. The library, which 
is on the second floor, west wing, 
contains over 2,000 volumes and 
pamphlets on medical subjects, and 
is used in connection with the 
compilation of the Index Catalogue, 
which will make the most complete 
publication ofthekindin the world. 
TAe Washington Barracks (formerly the Arsenal) is located at the foot of 4J street. 
The grounds are beautifully laid out, and many objects of interest are open for inspec- 
tion. As early as 1803 it was a military station, and in 18 14 it was one of the places 
destroyed by the British. In 18 15, under Col. George Bomford, it was rebuilt. Now 
used as an artillery station. 

SOLDIERS' HOME. This institution is, in object, somewhat similar to that 




Ford's Theatre (in which President Lincoln was 
assassinated). 



to Washington and Vicinity, 



39 




soldiers' homb. 



ef the Hotel dei 
Invalides at 
Paris. To Gen. 
Winfield Scott is 
the military ser- 
vice indebted, in 
great part, for the 
suggestion and 
endowment of 
the Sold iers* 
Home. 

March 3, 
185 1, not long 
after the termi- 
nation of the 
Mexican war, 
Congress donated 
$118,719, the 
unused balance 
in the Treasury 
of the sum levied 

by Gen. Scott on the City of Mexico, to aid in the establishment of the Home. To 
this sum is added forfeitures, stoppages, and fines, and a tax of 12 cts. a month (formerly 
25 cts.) on each private soldier. 

The main building is of marble, 200 feet front. There are also several beautiful mar- 
ble cottages, the residences of the officers, and the former Riggs' homestead, clustered 
near it. 

In summer time Presidents Pierce, Buchanan, and Lincoln resided here President 
Hayes also spent a portion of the warm weather at this beautiful retreat. 

A new hospital has been erected within the grounds. 

There is here, on the brow of the hill, a bronze statue of General Scott, 10 feet high, 
facing the city, by Launt Thompson, erected by the Home in 18745 ^^^ $18,000. 

The grounds embrace 500 acres, and are most beautifully laid out. The drive within 
the enclosure extends 7 miles. 

Disabled private soldiers of the regular army are entitled to the benefits of the Home j 
during their stay their pensions are stopped. 

The Home is three miles north of the Capitol. The tower of the main building af- 
fords the most beautiful of views, the Crpitol being a main feature in the landscape. On 
a clear day the top of Sugar-Loaf mountain can be discerned in the far distance. 

Horse-cars connect with, and convey passengers from, the terminus of the Seventh- 
street route to within a short distance of the Home. 

National Military Cemetery. This burial-place adjoins the Soldiers* Home; estab- 
lished in 1861. It is a sad memorial of the war; 5,153 Union and 271 Confederate 
dead are interred here. The names of 279 of them are unknown. 

NAVY DEPARTMENT. In 1879 the Navy Department was removed into 
the new building. It occupies the south half of the east section of the structure, and 
is entered from the same central portico as is the War Department. 
J The service of the Naval Department is divided into eight Bureaus, viz : Ordnance, 
Equipment and Recruiting, Yards and Docks, Navigation, Medicine and Surgery, Pro- 
visiont and Clothing, Steam Engineering, and Construction and Repair. 



4© . Roosts Companion and Guide 

National Observatory. On a hill 96 feet high, southwest from the President's House, 
on the Potomac river, is situated the National Observatory, near the southwest terminus 
of New York avenue. 

This hill, long ago, was known as Feter'i Hilly having belonged to Mr. Robert Peter, 
one of the original proprietors. It was also called Camp Hilly because the forces of Gen. 
Braddock encamped here previous to starting on the ill-fated expedition of 1755 > ^"^ ''* 
1 8 14 the troops mustered to defend Washington were stationed here. It was embraced 
within the proposed town of Hamburg or Funkstown, laid out and lots therein sold yean 
before the Federal city was devised, and the titles to which became sources of annoyance 
to the early commissioners. 

General Washington was desirous of having a national university established here. 
[See Reservation No. 4.] 

The Observatory is under the direction of the Navy D«»«rtment, and belongs to the 
Bureau of Navigation. It was established in 1842. Tlzr « tral building was completed 
in 1844. Its present rank is among the foremost in tl*' mxil. There is here, mounted 
in 1873, the most powerful telescope ever made, the "Great Equatorial j" cost $47,000, 
It weighs, including its base, six tons. The cost of the iron dome erected to cover it 
was $14,000. 

The Naval Hospital is between 9th and loth streets, on Pennsylvania avenue east} it 
u attached to the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery of the Navy Department, and is for 
the benefit of the officers and men of the Navy and Marine Corps. Cost $116,935.33. 

Navy Tard. At the southern terminus of 8th street east is the entrance to the 
Washington Navy- Yard. It lies along the banks of the Anacostia. 

Dec. 30, 1799, Hon. Benj. Stoddard, Secretary of the Navy, ordered the grounds to 
be laid out. The yard was formally established by act of March, 1804. The grounds 
occupy about 27 acres. 

It contains a large number of trophies connected with our naval encounters, and is 
well worth a visit. 

The Museum, open from 9 A. M. to 4 P. M., is full of objects of interest. There is 
here a Spanish gun which Cortez used in his conquest of Mexico, obtained during our 
Mexican war, and a small mortar captured from Lord Cornwallis, etc. 

Recently the yard has been more prominent for its manufacture of naval supplies than 
for naval construction. Its workshops are extensive. 

The Marine Barracks are of brick, and occupy the whole of square 927, a short distance 
north of the entrance to the Navy- Yard, on 8th st., between G and I sts. s. e. 

The barracks were burnt in 1 8 14 by the British, but were immediately rebuilt. The 
architect was Mr. Latrobe. Cost $335,636.81, 

The Marine Corps, created in 1798, is an adjunct to the Navy. The headquarters 
are in Washington. The force consists of a Commandant holding the rank of brigadier- 
general, I colonel, 2 lieutenant-colonels, 4 majors, 20 captains, with a large number of 
lieutenants, and about 2,500 men. 

POST-OFFICE DEPARTMENT. This building occupies the whole square 
between 7th and 8th and E and F sts. n. w., and is opposite the Patent Office. It is of 
white marble, from New York and Maryland quarries, and is of a modified Corinthian 
order of architecture. It is said to be the best representation of the Italian palatial ia 
America, and recalls remembrance of a Florentine palace. It measures 300 feet north 
and south, and 204 feet east and west. 

) In the centre of the front facing 8th st,, over the carriage gate-way, is an interesting 
«pccimen of carving, representing " the railroad and the telegraph." v 

The Postmaster-General's Office is in the story above the basement, on the loutl) lijc* 



io Washington and VtHnlfy^ 



4» 



The Dead- 
Letter Office is 
on the north 
side. To enter 
this requires a 
pass, which is 
easily obtained 
from the Chief 
Clerk. 




POST-OFPICB DEPARTMENT. 



History. The 
site of the south 
side of the Post- 
Office Depart- 
ment was, early 
in the history of 
Washington city, 
occupied by a 
brick building, 

projected by Samuel Blodgett, an unsuccessful speculator, for a hotel. It was to be 120 
ft. long, 50 ft. wide, and three stories high. James Hoban was architect. The corner- 
stone was laid in 1793, and the plan approved by the commissioners. 

■ It " was put up," as Watterson states, "out of the proceeds of a lottery authorized to 
be drawn, but not completed. The owners of the prize ticket were orphan children, 
who, not having the means of completing the building, suffered it to remain in an un- 
finished and dilapidated state." It was here the first theatrical entertainments were given 
in the national Capital. 

In 1 8 10 it was bought by Government, and plainly finished. 

Congress, in 18 14-'! 5, after the burning of the Capitol, held one session here; and 
in the second story the Patent Office was for years accommodated. The lower story was 
occupied by the General and City Post- Offices until Dec. 15, 1836, when the building 
was destroyed by fire. Private buildings were then rented for the immediate need. 

In 1839 the south portion of the present building was commenced by Robert Mills. 
Government bought the north half of the square to F st. in 1842. In 1855 the new 
Extension was begun. The designs were made by Thomas U. Walter, architect of the 
Capitol, and executed by Capt., now Gen. M. C. Meigs, and Edward Clark, architect. 

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.— P^r?/;/ Office. The Patent Office 
building, in which much of the work connected with the Department of the Interior is 
performed, covers two squares — from 7th to 9th sts. and from F to G sts. n. w. It 
measures 410 feet from east to west, and 275 feet from north to south. It is Doric in 
architecture, and in the original plan of the city the ground on which it stands was re- 
served for the building of a Grand National Church. 

y The present structure was commenced in 1837. The south front — built of freestone, 
painted white — was the earliest built ,• designed by Wm. F. Elliott, and executed by 
Robert Mills. The east wing was authorized in 1849, was commenced by Mr. Mills, 
who was succeeded, in 185 1, by Edward Clark, then assistant to the architect of the 
Capitol, by whom the building was completed in 1864. The new portions are of Mary- 



i^ 



Roose^s Companion and Guide 




V / 



to Washington and Vicinity, 



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44 



Roosts Companion and Guide 



land marble on the street extensions and granite on the interior quadrangle, 
ing contains about 191 rooms, and cost $2,700,000. 

Four halls dn the second floor compass the whole building. 



The buUd- 



In December, 1836, a fire consumed the building then occupied by the Patent Office, 
situated where the General Post Office now stands. The models accumulated during 46 
years were all destroyed. The patents to that date numbered 10,301. From July 4, 
1836, to July 4, 1876, there were issued 179,638 patents. 

Another fire occurred here Sept. 24, 1877, in which many thousands of models were 
destroyed. The greater portion of the upper story of the whole building was mainly 
burned out 

In this building is the office of the Secretary of the Interior, who has charge of afl^in 
'* connected with patents, public lands, pensions, Indians, census, education, and bene- 
ficiary asylums in the District; and he has also supervisory control over the architect of 
the Capitol." The immense structure is not large enough to accommodate all the 
offices connected with the Department, and several rented buildings have been brought 
into its service. 

The Bureau of Education is located at the corner of G and 8th sts., n. w., opposite the 
north front of the Patent Office. The Department of Education was created March 2, 
1867. Its design is to coUeet statistics and facts showing the condition and progress of 
education in the States and Territories. In 1868 it was reduced to a bureau^ called the 
« Office of Education" 

Survey of the Territories. Office on 7th St., bet £ and F sts. n. w. Here information 
can be obtained relative to the surveys in the far West, and photographs seen illustrative 
of the work of the various scientific exploring^expeditions of the U. S. 

The Pension Building is located in Judiciary Square, occupying the G tt. front, from 
4th to 5th sts. n.w. 

Government 
Hospital for the 
Insane^ On the 
high ground on 
the south side of 
die Anacostia is 
this institution. 
In the distance 
it looks like a 
lar^ feudal cas- 
tle. There is 
attached to it an 
estate of 419 
acres, a portion 
of which is cul- 
tivated by the 
patients. ' Miss 
Dix, the well 
known philan- 
thropist, took an 
active part in urging the establishment of this great Government benevolence. Nearly 




IMSANK ASTUm. 



to Washington and Vicinity, 




46 



Roosts Companion and Guide 



one thousand persons, attendants and patients, are accommodated within its walls. It 
is also known as St. Elizabeth Hospital. The Institution was opened in 1855. It is 
750 feet long. Cost of building, etc., $988,846.35. 

An iron bridge across the Anacostia, near the Navy-Yard, affords access to the Insane 
Hospital. Its reported cost is $99,487. ^^ 

Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb is situated on « Kendall Green, lymg in 

northeastly direction from the Capitol; entrance north end of 7th st. east, also the east 



terminus of M st. north. Amos Kendall, Postmaster-General in Gen. Jackson's Cab 




-collegiate department .._.__ . . 

1870 the Board purchased an additional 82 acres of Kendall Green property for 5t58s,ooo, 

payable in four years. The property is valued at $350,000. 

Columbia Hospital for Women^ and Lying-in Asylum^ cor. L and 25th n. w. A dn- 
pensary is open here every day. 

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. Opposite the United States Treasury is a 
iplendid building, originally erected for the Freedman's Bank. Its upper stories are occu- 
pied by this department; entrance at west door. The 
Court of Claims is accommodated in this building. 

The principal object of interest here is the gallery of 
portraits of the Attorneys-General of the United States. 
This Department was created June, 1 870. The 
head is the United States Attorney-General ; all Gov- 
ernment prosecutions are conducted by it. Subordi- 
nate to it are the officers of the District and Circuit 
Courts of the United States; the Reform School; 
Metropolitan Police and jail of the District of Co- 
lumbia, and the various law officers of the national 
Departments. 

The Court-House [formerly the City Hally) is situ- 
ated opposite the northern terminus of 4J street, on 
Judiciary Square, which comprises about 20 acres. 
The courts of the District are held, excepting that of 
the Police Court, in the Court- House. 

The structure is of freestone, painted white. It 
was designed by George Hadfield, an Englishman, one 
of the architects of the Capitol. Only about one-half of the building, as designed by 
him, has been erected. It was commenced in 1820 ; whole frontage, 250 feet. 

In the front of the building, on a marble column, is a statue of President Lincoln, 
by Lot Flannery, of Washington city, erected by contributions of citizens. (See Reser- 
vation No. 9.) 

The Police Court is at the n. e. corner of 6th and D sts. n, w., in the building once 
used for worship by the Unitarian Society. 

The Reform School is situated on Lincoln's Hill, (a fort of that name occupied the site 
during the war of the rebellion,) on the Washington and Baltimore turnpike. It is for 
boys, and attached is a farm of 1 50 acres. 

. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Between the Smithsonian Insti- 
tution and the Washington Monument grounds is situated the Agricultural Department, 
between I2th and 14th sts. s. w. It is of brick, with brown stone trimmings j 170 feet 




PEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. 




AORICULTUSAL DEPARTMENT. 



/# Wdsbington and Vicinity. 47 

long, 61 feet 
deep; designed 
by A do 1 ph 
Cluss, and has 
a mansard roof j 
finished in 
1868. It bears 
a resemblance 
to what the 
Palace of Ver- 
sailles was when 
only a hunting 
chateau, before 
Louis XIV ex- 
pended upon it 
the revenues of 
a kingdom. 

There are 
extensive struc- 
tures built for 
e X p e r imental 
gardening, 

known as Plant- HoaseSy designed by Mr. Saunders, " Superintendent of Gardens," etc. 
The main building is 320 feet long and 30 feet wide, with a projecting centre wing 150 
feet long. 

Besides the gardens, etc., there is here an Agricultural Museum of great interest. 
The Department was established May 15, 1862. 

THE GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE is at the corner of North Cap- 
itol and H sts.; length, 300 feet on H st. and 175 feet on North Capitol st. It is said to 
be at present the largest printing establishment in the world. 

fVaibington Asylum^ etc. This institution is an asylum for the poor, and a workhouse 
for those convicted of minor crimes, except theft, in the police courts. It is on Hospi- 
tal Square, or Reservation 13, being the extreme eastern portion of the city. The first 
building was put up in 1815 ; there are now accommodations for 400 persons. 

North of it is the new District Jail, four stories high, 310 by 193 feet, designed by A. 

B. Mullett. Cost, $343,556.77. Begun in 1872; made ready for occupation in 1875. 

The Army and Navy Magazines were formerly in near neighborhood, but have been 

removed to their new location south of Giesborough's point on the Potomac. South of 

the Jail is the 

Congressional Cemetery. This Cemetery is attached to Christ Church, Episcopal, (Wash- 
ington parish,) Navy- Yard. (See Churches.) 

The Cemetery now embraces 30 acres. It was laid out in 1807, with about ten acres. 
It is called Congressional because there are sites allotted here for the interment of mem- 
bers of Congress who die in office, and even if not buried here, a monument is erected 
to the memory of such. There are rows of tombs, many of which are empty. It is not 
only beautiful as a cemetery, but is interesting on account of the many distinguished dead 
who lie here. C 

j9 Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian Institution is built of red freestone, and has 
numerous towers, reminding one of the palace of the old Scotch kings, Holyrood. The 
extreme length of the building, from east to west, is 447 feet } the breadth of the centre. 




SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 



48 P.dose*s Companion and Ouide 

including car- 
riage-porch, is 
I 6 o feet. It 
was designed by 
James Ren- 
w i c k, Jr., of 
New York, 
The style is 
Norman, in use 
about the end 
ofthe I2th 
c e n tury j cor- 
ner-stone laid 
1847; com- 
p leted 1856J 
cost $450,000. 

The grounds, 
extending from 
7th to 1 2th sts., 
were laid out by 
Andrew Jack- 
son Downing, a landscape gardener of great reputation, who died while prosecuting this 
work. There is a beautiful vase to his menx ry erected here. ' 

This institution is the bequest of an English gentleman, James Smithson, an illegiti- 
mate son of a Duke of Northumberland. The bequest was " to found at Washington, 
under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and 
diffusion of knowledge among men." The original bequest was $515,169. In 1836 
Congress accepted it, and it was obtained through Hon. Richard Rush, of Pennsylvania, 
designated a commissioner for the purpose. The accumulated interest, etc., was suffi- 
cient to pay for the erection of the building. 

The National Museum deposited here includes the collections of all the exploring ex- 
peditions of the United States, besides all other sorts of curiosities, and would require 
'veeks to examine carefully. 

A low brick building, 300 feet square, erected in 1879, known as the " Annex to the 
Smithsonian Institution,'' is intended to contain the Centennial Exhibits of, and donations 
of foreign governments to, the United States. It covers an area of z\ acres. 

The Smithsonian Institution publishes and distributes original works on General and 
Special Science, and is engaged in extensive Meteorological Investigations. The Library, 
once centered here, has been removed to the Capitol into a hall ofthe Library of Congress. 

WASHINGTON MONUMENT. 

This is a white marble obelisk, situated on a bluff on the Potomac river, near the 
northwest terminus of Virginia avenue. It is the spot where Gen. Washington indi- 
cated his choice for the erection of the statue which the Continental Congress had voted 
in honor of his services. (See Reservation No. 3., 

In 1835 the Washington Monument Association was formed. Chief- Justice Mar- 
shall was its first president. Its object was to erect a monument to the memory of 
our great first President. The accepted design was the idea of Robert Mills; a shaft 
rising from a rotunda to the height of 600 feet — designed to be the highest structure 
ever reared by man, excepting the Tower of Babel. 



to Washington and Vicinity. 



49 



The corner-stone was laid July 4, 1848. Ex-President John Quincy Adams was to 
have delivered the address, but, his death occurring a few months previous, Robert C. 
Winthrop, of Massachusetts, Speaker of the House of Representatives, was selected to 
perform that duty. The amount collected was $230,000. 

The funds 
were exhausted 
and work sus- 
pended before 
the late civil 
war culminated; 
but Congress 
having made 
a p p ropriations 
for the purpose, 
work was re- 
com m e n ced, 
and the shaft 
completed at a 
height of 555 
feet on Dec. 6, 
1884. The 
capstone is a 
cuniform key- 
stone, its height 
from base to top 
being 5 feet 2J 
inches. It is 4 
feet 5I inches 
high on the 
outer face, with 
a 7-in. shoulder 
to bind on each 
side, extending 
10^ inches be- 
low. It is 3 
feet and a frac- 
tion square at 
the bottom, and 
5 inches in di- 
ameter at the 
top where the 
aluminium tip 
fits on. Its 
weight is 3,300 
pounds. 

The alumi- 
nium apex of the monument is engraved with inscriptions as follows : On one face, 
"Chief Engineer and Architect, Thomas Lincoln Casey, Colonel Corps of Engineers; 
Assist:ants, George W. Davis, Fourteenth United States Infantry ; Bernard R. Green, 




WASHINGTON MuNUMENT. 



so 



Roose*s Companion and Guiae 



Civil Engineer; Master Mechanic, P. H. McLaughlin." On another, ** Corner-stone 
laid on bed of foundation July 4th, 1848. First stone at height of 152 feet laid August 
7, 1880. Capstone set December 6, 1884." On a third, " Joint Commission at setting 
of capstone — Chester A. Arthur, W. W. Corcoran, (chairman,) M. E. Bell, Edward 
Clark, John Newton. Act of August 2, 1876." And on the fourth face the words 
** Laus Deo" — Praise to God. Dedicated February 21st, 1885. Cost to date, 
$1,130,000, of which amount Congress appropriated $900,000. 

The original design of the Washington National Monument embraced the idea of a 
grand circular colonnaded building, two hundred and fifty feet in diameter, and one huft* 
dred feet high, from which is to spring an obelisk shaft seventy feet at the base and five 
hundred feet high. The obelisk to be constructed first. 



THE GARFIELD STATUE 




Is regarded by the sculptor, Mr. J. Q. A. Ward, as 
one of his most successful achievements. It is a more 
pretentious and ornate work of art in its entirety than 
are the other monuments in this city. Its position is 
a commanding one, being situate in the small circle at 
the intersection of First street and Maryland avenue, 
adjoining the Capitol grounds to the west, and is seen 
to fair advantage from the Capitol and surrounding 
grounds and from the intersecting streets. 

The statue rises thirty feet into the air and sur- 
mounts a broad and shapely granite base and graceful 
pedestal. Three sides of the shaft are inscribed as 
follows : 

Southwest face : James A. Garfield, 1831 — 1881^ 

On the southeast face : Major General, U. S. V. ; 

Member of Congress ; Senator and President of the 

United States of America. On the north face : 

Erected by his Comrades of the Society of the 

Army of the Cumberland, May 12, 1887. 

Surrounding the base of the pedestal are 
three life-size recumbent figures of bronze, 
representing the three types of manhood so 
well represented by Garfield — those of stu- 
dent, warrior and statesman — scholar, sol- 
dier and orator — or as the sculptor prefers 
to state it, the three attributes — of wisdom, force and patriotism. 

These figures in sitting postures occupy the three corners of the triangular base of the 
pedestal. Above each of them is an emblematic shield-shaped tablet appropriate to the 
figure beneath, and each also executed in bronze. Above the figure of the student the 
emblematic shield bears the book and globe of school days. The shield over the soldier's 
head bears the emblematic sword and trumpet. That over the statesman is ornamented 
with the scales of justice and the laurel wreath of fame. Surrounded by the recumbent 
figures rises the circular granite shaft encircled by sculptured bands of laurel leaves and 
sprays of buck-eyes. 



to Washington and Vicinity, 



51 



This pedestal is eighteen feet in height, and surmounting it is the bronze statue of 
James A. Garfield, heroic in size, erect and commanding in attitude. The figure is ten 
feet six inches in height, and weighs 5,000 pounds. It represents Garfield prior to the 
time of his election to the Presidency and when in the height of physical strength and 
force. He is in the attitude of an orator, the sculptor's aim being to reproduce with the 
most lifelike accuracy the position in which be customarily stood when addressing the 
House, although the statue may equally well be regarded as representing him in the act 
of delivering his inaugural address on March 4, 1881. 



Corcoran Gallery of Art. At the corner of 17th street and Pennsylvania avenue, op- 
posite the War Department, 
is the Corcoran Gallery of 
Art. It is in the renaissance 
style, 104 feet by 124J feet, 
of brick, with trimmings of 
Belleville freestone. The 
building is the gift of Mr, W. 
W. Corcoran, a retired 
wealthy banker and philan- 
thropist of Washington, to 
the United States. With it 
was also given his own private 
art collection, and an endow- 
ment fund of $900,000, the 
interest on which is to be ex- 
pended to increase the value of 
the collection. Facilities for 
copying the works of the Gal- 
lery are cordially extended to 
artists and students on certain 
conditions. An admirable 
catalogue has been published 
of this collection, which of itself is a valuable compendium of art information, com- 
piled by the curator, Dr. F. S. Baibarin, 

It is open daily, but on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays there is a charge of 25 
cents entrance J on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays the admission is free. The 
gallery of sculpture and bronzes is exceedingly fine, and very valuable. 

Masonic Temple is at the corner of 9th and F sts. n,w., opposite the Patent Office. 
Corner-stone laid 1868, Cost $200,000. Built of granite and Connecticut and Nova 
Scotia freestone. 

The Order was early planted in the Federal City. Prior to 1 8 1 6 two Lodges assembled 
in a building near the river. 

Odd-Felloivs' Hall is on 7th st. between D and E sts. n.w. It was dedicated in 1846; 
remodelled in 1873. T^'s first Lodge of the Order was established in the District in 
1827 ; the Grand Lodge followed in 1828. 

Providence Hospital. This hospital was founded in 1862 by the Sisteri ot Charity. 

Its accommodations for pay patients are excellent ; and it has attached to it a library, 
eading-room, and chapel. It is situated at the corner of D and 2d sts, s.e. 




''■"^'^JijcmLi^: 



CORCORAN GALLERY OF ART. 



5« 



Roosts Companion and Guide 



Gonxaga College was founded a seminary in 1848 ; incorporated a university in 185S ; 
is conducted by fathers of the Society of Jesus. It is on I St., between North Capitol 
and First st. n. w. 

The Columbian University, formerly located on College Hill. This seat of learning, 
located corner Fifteenth and H streets N. W., was founded by the Baptists, incorporated 
in 1821, and commenced in 1822. The Laiv Department, established in 1826, is also 
in the University building. 

In 1873 it became a University, The President of the United States and the Chief- 
Justice of the Supreme Court are honorary members of the Board of Trustees. 

The National Medical College, connected with the University, is on H St., between 
13th and 14th sts. n. w.j founded in 1824. The building, in 1864, was presented by 
Mr. W. W. Corcoran. 

Howard University occupies a commanding situation on a hill near the northern ter- 
minus of the 7th 
St. horse-railroad 
route. It was in- 
corpora ted in 
1 8 67, and named 
i n c mpliment 
after Gen. How- 
ard, then director 
of the Freed- 
men's Bureau. 
The admission, 
etc., of pupils is 
without regard to 
sex or color. The 
value of prop- 
e r t y ia about 
$600,000, 

F r e e dm en's 
Asylum is in the 
near neighbor- 
hood of Howard 
University. 

BENEVOLENT INSTITUTIONS.— iViz/wwa/ Soldiers and Sailors Orphans* 
Home, G St., between 17th and l8th sts. n. w.,* incorporated in 18665 amount appro- 
priated by Government $77,381.25 ; under the charge of a board of lady managers. No 
applicants received under six years old, nor kept after 16 years. 

Washington City Orphan Asylum, corner of 14th and S sts. n. w. j founded in 18 15. 
Dolly Madison was first directress, and Mrs. Van Ness (Marcia Burns) second. In- 
corporated in 1828. It is under the control of benevolent Protestant ladies. 

Children's Hospital is on W St., between 1 2th and 13th sts. n. w. j incorporated in 
1 87 1. Its object is to provide free surgical and medical treatment for the poor children 
of the District. It is under the patronage of the benevolent. A free dispensary is con- 
nected with it. Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, from 3 to 5 P. M., are visiting days. 
Value of building, designed by Mr. Jno. C, Harkness, $23,622.22. Value of square, 
$24,500,00. Value of furniture and appliances, $2,000.00. Total, $50,l22.22j| 
The new building was first occupied October, 1878. 




HOWARD UNTVERSITV. 



to Washington and Vicinity. 



53 




LOUISE HOME 



Ltuiu Home^ on Massachusetts avenue, between 15th and i6th 8t9. n. w.; built in 
ifyi. It pro- 
Tides an ele- 
gant home for 
reduced gen- 
tlewomen, and 
is the gift of 
the wealthy 
Washingtoni- 
an, Mr. W. 
W. Corcoran, 
who has called 
it by the name 
of his wife and 
daughter, la- 
dies now dead. 
It cost $200,- 
000, and has 
an endowment 
of $250,000. 
It accommo- 
dates 55 per- 
sons. The in- 
mates are in- 
vited by the lady directresses. Open to visitors every week day, after 12 noon. 

St. John's Hospital^ for children ; under the direction of the St. John's Sisterhood of 
the Episcopal Church. The new house is on H St., between 19th and 20th sts. n. w^ 
Received an appropriation from Government of $25,000. 

St. Ann's Infant Asylum; founded in 1863 ; for children less than five years j under 
the management of the Sisters of Charity. A lying-in hospital is attached. Corner of 
K and 24th sts. n. w. Visiting day, Thursday, from 2 to 5 P. M. 

St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum; founded 1855; under the care of the Sisters of 
the Holy Cross j is on H st., between 9th and loth sts. n. w. 

St. Vincent's Female Orphan Asylum ; founded 1 8 3 1 ; under the care of the Sisters of 
Charity j is on the s. w. corner of G and loth sts. n. w. A branch, known as St. Rose's 
Orphan Home, is on G St., between 20th and 21st sts. n. w. This is for the more adult, 
and the girls are taught a trade. 

The Visitation Academy^ on Conn, avenue, between L and M n.w., is under the charge 
of the Sisters of Visitation, and is an emanation from the elder institution in Georgetown. 

Academy of the Holy Cross, Mass. ave., between 13th and 14th streets n.w. Under 
the charge of Sisters of that order. 

The Epiphany Church Home is on H St., between 13th and 14th streets n.w. 

The Home for the Aged is at the corner of 3d and H sts. n.e. It is under the charge 
of the Little Sisters of the Poor. An appropriation of $25,000 was given by the Gov- 
ernment. ^ 

Women'' s Christian Associationy 13th and R sts. n.w. 

HOTELS. — Arlington, on Vermont ave., near, President's House; capacity, 325 guests. 
Ebbittf comer F and 14th sts. n. w.; capacity, 350 guests, 

Harris House, E st., (facing Penn. avenue,) between 13th and 14th sts. n. w. Roomt 
without board. Capacity, 200 guests. 



St. James, cor. Penna. ave. and 6th st. n. w.; European plan. 



54 Roose's Companion and Guide 

Metropolitan, on Penn. ave., between 6th and 7th sts. n. w.; capacity, 300 guests. 
National, on Penn. avenue, cor. of 6th st. n. w.; capacity, 500. 
Riggs House, corner of 15th and G sts. n. w. 
Tremont, corner of 2d st. and Indiana ave., near B. & O. Depot. 
Willard's, on Penn. avenue and 14th st. n. w.; capacity, 500. 
^Vormley's, on 15th and Hsts. n. w.; capacity, 150. 

These are the most notable. There are other hotels of lower prices, suited to all classes ol 
persons. 

PRINCIPAL MARKETS.— Centre Market ; 410 feet front, between 7th and 9th sts., on 
the south side of Penn. ave. n. w.; built, 1870. 

Eastern Market, on Capitol Hill, at the junction of 7th st. e. and North Carolina ave.; 
built, 1873. 
Western Market, on K, between 20th and 21st sts. n. w. 

Northern Market, between 6th and 7th sts. and O and P sts. n. w,; temporarily accom- 
modated in wooden sheds. 

Northern Liberty Market, on 5th st., between K and L sts. n. w.; is of brick; 324 feet 
long ; cost, $140,000 ; built, 1875. 

RAILROADS.— For South, North, East, and West, Baltimore and Potomac. Depot 
corner B and 6th sts. n. w., near Pennsylvania avenue. 

For East, North, and West, Baltimore and Ohio. Depot comer C st. and New Jersey 
are., near the Capitol. 

HORSE-CAR ROUTES.— Columbia Railway. From the Treasury, isth st. and N. 
York ave., to H st. and Boundary n. e. It intersects the Metropolitan at 9th st, and the 7th st, 
line at 7th st. 

Metropolitan Railway. From 17th st., south to Penu. ave., near the State Department, 
to Senate wing of Capitol. 

Georgetown and East Capitol Street Branch of this route runs from Georgetown, near the Con- 
vent, to Lincoln square. 
J Ninth St. Branch, from northern terminus of 9th st. to the Arsenal gate. 

Silver Spring Branch, from northern terminus of 7th st. route to the road leading to Soldiers* 
Home and Rock Creek Church. 

Washington and Georgetown Railway, Main Branch. At the comer of Pennsylvania 
avenue and ist st. n. w. passengers going to or coming from the Baltimore and Ohio depot are 
transferred without extra charge. 

Fourteenth St. Branch. From the Treasury, 15th st. and N. York ave., to the Boundary 
north. Exchange tickets given for Penasylvania ave. line. 

Seventh St. Branch. From the Boundary north to the river front. Exchange tickets given 
for Pennsylvania ave. line. 

Capitol, North O st. and South W^ashington Railroad ; or, " The Belt," so called 
from the circuitous route it traverses. It starts on Maryland ave., at the foot of Capitol Hill 
west, south side of the Botanical Garden, and proceeds north to O St., then west to nth st., 
then turns south to E st., again west to 14th st., then south to Ohio ave., which it traverses s. e. 
to i2th St., then south, crossing the Mall, to Virginia ave., along which it travels to its intersec- 
tion with Maryland ave., then along that avenue to the place from which it started. 

The Anacostia and Potomac River street Railroad commences at 6th st. Wharf and M 
St. s. w. ; thence runs east along M st. to nth st. s. e. ; then south along nth st., crossing Ana- 
costia Bridge to Uniontown, terminating there. 

The tickets of the various street railroads interchange, thus conferring a great favor upon pas- 
sengers. 

CHURCHES, denominations alphabetically arranged. — Baptist. — First Baptist, 13th st, 
between G and H sts. n. w. ^ 

Second Church, corner of Virginia avenue and 4th st. s. e. 
E-Street Church, south side, between 6th and 7th sts. n.. w. 
Calvary Church, comer of H and 8th sts. n. w. 
Fifth Baptist Church, D st., near 4^^ st. s. w. 
North Baptist Church, 14th st., near R st. n. w. 
Kendall Mission Chapel, comer 13^ and D sts. s. w. 
Calvary Mission Chapel, corner of 5th and P sts. n. w. 

Metropolitan Baptist Chapel, (erected 1875,) s. w. corner of A and 6th sts. n. fc. 
Gay-Street Baptist, corner of Congress and Gay, Georgetown. 
Baptist Colored Churches. — Second Baptist, 3d st., near I st. n. w. 
Third Baptist, Franklin, between P and Q sts. n. w. 
Fourth Baptist, R St., between 12th and 13th sts. n. w. 
Fifth Baptist, Vermont avenue, between Q and R sts. n. w. 
Sixth Baptist, near corner of 6th and G sts. s. w. 
Nineteenth Street, corner of 19th and I sts. n. w. 
^ Shiloh, L St., between i6th and 17th sts. n. w. 1 

Rehoboth, ist St., near O st. s. w. "* 



to Washington and Vicinity. 



55 




t. OF C. 



^6 Roosts Companion and Guide 

lit. ZIon, P «i^ , between 3d and *,% sts. s. w. 

Libeitjr Churcil, E st., comer of i8th n. w. 

Abruinian, Vermont avenue, corner of R st. n. w. 

L-Street Baptist, corner of 4th and L sts. n. w. 

Knon. comer of 6th st. and South Carolina avenue s. e. 

Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 6th st., between L and M n. e. 

First Baptist Church, Dumbarton and Monroe sts., Georgetown. 

Chriatadelphian Synagogue.— Christadelphian Synagogue,Circuit-Court Room, City Hall, 

Chriatian. — Memorial Church, Vermont avenue, between N and O streets n. w. 

Congregational. — First Congregational Church, corner of loth and G sts. n. w. 

Epiacopal. — St. John's Church, corner of i6th and H sts. n. w. 

Epiphany Church, G st., between 13th and 14th sts. n. w. 

Trinity Church, comer of 3d and C sts. n. w. 

Church of the Ascension, comer of Massachusetts avenue and 12th st. n. w. 

Christ Church, G st., between 6th and 7th s. e. 

Grace Church, D st., between 8th and 9th s. w. 

Church of the Incarnation, corner of 12th and N sts. n. w. 

St. Mark's Church, 3d St., between A and B sts. s. e. 

St. Paul's Church, (Ritualistic,) 23d st. n. w., south of Pennsylvania avenue Circle. 

Church of the Holy Communion, 22d st,, near E st. n. w. 

Church of the Holy Cross, comer 19th and P sts. n. w. 

St. Andrew's Church, 14th and Corcoran sts. n. w. 

St. James' Parish, services in the house. No. 819 H st. n. e, 

St. Paul's Church, (Rock Creek,) near Soldiers' Home. 

Emanuel Church, Washington st., Uniontown. 

Christ Church, cor. Congress and Beall sts., Georgetown. 

St. John's Church, 2d and Potomac sts., Georgetown. 

Grace Church, High, between Bridge and "Water sts., Georgetown. 

St. Alban's, High st. extended, Georgetown. 

Episcopal, (colored.) — St. Mary's Chapel, 23d st., between H and I sts. 

Episcopal, (reformed.) — No settled place of worship. 

Friends' Meeting Houses. — Meeting House, (Hicksite,) I st., between i8th and 19th sts. 
n. w., north side. 

Meeting House, (Orthodox,) 13th st., between R and S sts. n. w. 

German Reformed Church. — First Reformed Church, comer of 6th and N sts. n. w. Ger- 
man service in the morning ; English service in the evening. 

Hebrew Synagogues. — Congregation Adas Israel, (Orthodox,) corner of 6th and G sts. n. 
w. Services every Friday evening at sunset, and every Saturday at 8 A. M. and 4 P. M. 
■ Washington Hebrew Congregation, 8th St., between H and I sts. n. w. Services Friday eve* 
ning at 7 o'clock and Sabbath (Saturday) morning at 9 o'clock. 

Lutheran. — St. Paul's Church, (English,) comer of nth and H sts. n. w. 

Memorial Church, (English,) corner of N and 14th sts. n. w. 

German Evangelical Congregation of Trinity, Unaltered Augsburg Confession, corner ef 4th 
and E sts. n. w. 

German Evangelical Church, corner of 20th and G sts. n. w. 

German Evangelical, St. John's Church, 4^ st. s. w. 

Capitol-Hill Mission, ist st., near C st. s. e. 

German Evangelical Association, 6th St., between L and M sts. n. w. 

Lutheran Church, comer of High and 4th sts., Georgetown. 

Methodist Episcopal. — Metropolitan, corner of 4^ and C sts. n. w. 

Foundry Church, corner of 14th and G sts. n. w. 

Wesley Chapel, corner of 5th and F sts. n. w. 

McKendree Church, Massachusetts avenue, between 9th and loth sts. n. w. 

Ryland Chapel, corner of loth and D sts. s. w. 

Union Chapel, 20th St., near Pennsylvania avenue n. w. 

Waugh Chapel, comer of 3d and A sts. n. e. 

Hamline Church, comer of 9th and P sts. n. w. 

Grace Chapel, corner of 9th and S sts n. w. 

Fourth-Street Church, 4th st., between South Carolina avenue and G St. s. e. 

Twelfth-Street Church, corner of 12th and E sts. s. e. 

Fletcher Chapel, corner of New York ave. and 4th st. n. w. 

Gorsuch Chapel, corner of L and 4^^ sts. s. w. 

Providence Chapel, comer of 2d and I sts. n. e. 

Mt. Zion Chapel, corner of 15th and R sts. n. w. 

McKendree Mission, H st., between 8th and 9th sts. n. e. 

Memorial M. E. Chapel, 1878, H and nth sts. n. e. 

Uniontown, nearly opposite the Navy-yard. 

PmnbartOD Street, between Congress and High sts., Georgetowii, 



to Washington and Vicinity. 57 

West Georgetown Church, comer of Fayette and 7th sts., Georgetown. 

Methodist Episcopal South. — Mount Vernon Church, corner 9th and K sts. n. w. 

Methodist Protestant. — Methodist Protestant Church, ongthst., between E and Fsts.n.w 

First M. P. Church, Virginia avenue, near Navy -yard. 

M. P. Mission, corner of 8th st. and North Carc^.ina ave. s. e. 

Congress-street Church, between Bridge anti (riy sts., Georgetown. 

Mount Pleasant Church, corner of Fayette ar.<l High sts., Georgetown. 

Methodist Colored Churches. — Wesley Zion, D st., between 2d and 3d sts. s. w. 

Union Wesley, 23d, near L st. n. w, 

John Wesley, Connecticut avenue, near L st. n. w. 

Galbraith Chapel, L St., between 4th and sth sts. n. w. 

Israel Bethel, corner of B and ist sts. s. w. 

Union Bethel, M St., between 15th and i6th sts. n. w, 

St. Paul's Chapel, Sth st., between D and E sts. s. w. 

Mt. Pisgah Chapel, loth st., between Q and R sts. n. w. 

Asbury, corner of nth and K sts. n. w. 

Ebenezer, comer of D and 4th sts. s. e. 

Asbury Mission, corner Boundary and 9th sts. n. w. 

Ebenezer A. ]\I. E. Church, Beall st., between Montgomery and Monroe sts. Georgetowm, 

Mt. Zion M. E. Church, West st., Georgetown. 

A. M. E. Church, Hillsdale, D. C. 

A. M. E. Church, Good Hope, D. C. 

New Jerusalem. — Temple of the New Jerusalem Church, North Capitol st., between B 
and C sts. n. e. Seats free. 

Presbyterian. — First Presbyterian Church, 4^^ st., between Louisiana avenue andCst. n.w. 

New York Avenue Church, New York avenue, between 13th and 14th sts. n. w. 

Fourth Church, 9th St., between G and H sts. n. w. 

Assembly's Church, corner of 5th and I sts. n. w. 

Sixth Church, 6th St., near Maryland avenue s. w. 

Western Presbyterian Church, H st., between 19th and 20th sts. n. w., near Penna. avenue. 

Metropolitan Presbyterian Church, corner of 4th and B sts. s. e. 

Westminster Presbyterian Church, 7th St., between D and E sts. s. w. 

North Presbyterian, on N St., between 9th and loth sts. n. w. 

Reformed Presbyterian, ist St., between N and O sts. s. w. 

Central Presbyterian, comer of 3d and I sts. n. w. 

Eastern Presbyterian, Sth St., between F and G sts. n. e. 

Gurley Mission, Boundary, near 7th st. n. w. 

West-street Presbyterian Church, between Congress and High sts., Georgetown. 

Presbyterian, (Colored.) — Fifteenth-street Presbyterian Church, isth St., between I and K 
sts. n. w. 

Roman Catholic. — St. Patrick's Church, G St., between 9th and loth sts. n. w. The oldest 
Roman Catholic Church in Washington. 

St. Peter's Church, corner of 2d and C sts. s.e. Built on ground donated by D.iniel Carroll, 
of Duddington, one of the largest original proprietors of the Federal City. 

St. Matthew's Church, corner of 15th and H sts. n.w. 

St. Mary's Church, (German,) 5th st., near H st. n.w. 

St. Dominic's Church, corner of 6th and E sts. s.w. 

St. Aloysius Church, corner North Capitol and I sts. n.w. 

Church of the Immaculate Conception, corner of Sth and N sts. n.w. 

St. Stephen's Church, corner of Pennsylvania avenue and 25th st. n.w. 

St. Joseph's Church, (German,) corner of 2d and C sts. n.e. 

Trinity Church, cor. of ist and Lingan sts., Georgetown. 

St. Teresa, Uniontown. 

Roman Catholic, (colored.) — St. Augustine's Church, 15th St., near L st. n.w. 

Unitarian. — All Soul's Church, corner of 14th and L sts. n.w. 

Universalist. — Southeast corner of 13th and L streets. 

Young Men's Christian Association. — New York avenue, west of Fourteenth 
street. 

PUBLIC SCHOOLS.— JfVjif^Ca/iV^/.— The Franklin, at the corner of 13th and K sts. 
n.w., opposite one of the most beautiful squares in the city, is an exceedingly fine building of 
three stones, and contains 14 school-rooms. (White.) 

The Seaton, I St., between 2d and 3d sts. n.w.; erected ini87i. The site of this building was, 
during the late war, occupied by Stanton Hospital. (NVhite.) 

The Jefferson, corner of 6th and D sts. s.w. This is the largest of all. It was built in 1872, 
and can accommodate 1,200 scholars. (White.) 

i'he Sum.ner, on the n.e. corner of 17th and M sts. n.w.; completed in 1872. This is a vcni 
beautiful buU ding; cost 170,000. (Colored.) 



S8 



Roosts Companion and Guide 



The Miner Building, 17th St., between P and Q sts. n.w. Brick ; basement and Aree storlet. 
(Colored.) 
The Stevens, 21st St., between K and L sts. n.w. Brick ; basement and three stories. fCol*d.> 

iohn F. Cook Building, O St., between 4th and 5th sts. n.w. Brick; three stories. (Col'd.} 
Landall Building, ist and I s.w. Brick ; three stories. (Col'd.) 

The Abbot Building, corner .'of New York ave. and 6th st. n.w. Brick ; three storiei and 
basement. (White.) 

The Curtis Building, 2d St., between High and Market sts., Georgetown. Brick; three sto* 
ries and basement. (White.) 

East of Capitol. — Cranch Building, corner 12th and G sts. s.e. Brick; basement and three 
stories. (White.) 

The Wallach, Pa. ave., between 7th and 8th sts. s.e. Built in 1864. This was the first great 
advance in improved public school accommodations in Washington, and received its name in 
compliment to the then presiding civic dignitary. Mayor Wallach. (White.) 

The Lincoln, corner of 2d and C sts. s.e.; has 10 school-rooms, and is a handsome building, 
with admirable appointments. (Col'd.) 

WATER- WORKS. The water supplying the city of Washington is brought from 
above the Great Falls of the Potomac, \%\ miles from the Navy Yard. The Aqueduct 
is a succession of wonderful instances of the triumph of the civil engineer. It is a cylin- 
drical conduit of 9 feet internal diameter, and conveys the water from the Great Falls 
to a Distributing Reservoir^ 4J miles from the Capitol. The daily supply is 30 millions 
of gallons ; daily consumption 23 millions, and full capacity of the aqueduct 80 millions 
of gallons. 

The first ground was broken on the "Washington aqueduct by President Pierce, Nov. 
8, 1853. It has cost $3,500,000. 

Cabin- John Bridge is one of the distinguishing features of this great enterprise. The 

bridge is 20 feet 
wide and 420 ft. 
long. A single 
arch of 220 feet 
spans the chasm. 
Cost $237,000. 
Capt., now Gen. 
Montgomery C. 
Meigs, of the U. 
S. Corps of En- 
gineers, was the 
constr'ctor of this 
bridge and of the 
aqueduct. 

"The length 
of pipe line is ' 
eighteen miles ; 
twelve tunnels, 
the long*st 1,438 
feet; total tun- 
nelling, 6,653ft. 
-- CABIN JOHN BRiDGK. g^^j g bridges." 

A stand-pipe of iron, 60 feet high, was erected in 1877, at Sixteenth and Boundary 
sts. n. w. The cost was $37,000. "9 

FALLS OF THE POTOMAC. The X/ft/s Fa//* of the Potomac arc very 
beautiful, and are about 4 miles above Washington, being a series of cascades in all of 37 
feet. It is here the Chain Bridge^ as it is called, crosses the river. A curious fact is that 
all the bridges which have crossed the Potomac at this point have been called chain 
bridges, when, in fact, but one was of that construction. The bridge erected here before 




to Washington and Vicinity, 59 

181 1 was a chain suspension bridge, and its various successors (of which there have been 
several) have, in turn, been so called. The present one is a Howe-truss iron bridge, free, 
and cost $100,000. 

The Great FaUs^ as already stated, are some 10 miles above the Little Falls, and are 
wonderfully grand. The rocky channel here is narrowed to 100 yards, and in a series of 
cascades the river descends 80 feet in the course of a mile and a half. The Virginia shore 
towers 70 feet of perpendicular rock above the bed of the river. 

ANALOSTAN ISLAND is situated opposite Georgetown, and contains about 
70 acres. It is connected with the Virginia shore by a causeway. It was formerly the 
residence of Gen. John Mason, in the war of 18 12 commissary-general. It was once 
under admirable cultivation, and the earliest known Guide-Book of Washington, by 
Warden, gives a glowing account of its fertility and the elegant hospitality of its owner. 
It is now a place of holiday resort for picnics, etc. The mansion still stands, dilapi- 
dated and shorn of its former splendor. The Confederate commissioner to Europe, James 
M. Mason, arrested by Admiral Wilkes, was born on this island. 

CEMETERIES. We have in other places mentioned the Arlington, Congres- 
sional, and Oak Hill Cemeteries, and the National Military Cemetery at the Soldiers* 
Home. There are besides these other cemeteries of interest of considerable extent and 
beauty lying around the city of Washington. 

The oldest of these is Rock-Creek Church Cemetery^ near the Soldiers' Home. Rock- 
Creek Church was first erected in 1719, rebuilt in 1775, and remodelled in 1868. The 
main walls are those built in 1719. A monument here bears the date of 1775. About 
one-half of the glebe belonging to this old parish church has of late years been added to 
the cemetery. The venerable Peter Force, so long conspicuous in the Federal City, is 
interred here. 

Glenivood Cemetery lies about a mile and a half north of the Capitol. It embraces 90 
acres, and was incorporated in 1854. Amos Kendall, Postmaster- General in the time of 
Jackson and Van Buren, is buried here. 

Near the entranee to Glenwood are Prospect Hill Cemetery^ 17 acres j and 5/, Mary*$ 
Burying Ground^ 3 acres. 

Mount Olivet Cemetery, comprising 70 acres, is on the Columbia turnpike, ^ mile north 
of the cast terminus of the Columbia Horse Railway j incorporated in 1862. Many Roman 
Catholics of eminence are buried here. 

Graceland Cemetery, about 40 acres, is situated at the east terminus of the Columbia 
Horse Railway; opened 1872. 

Two of the oldest cemeteries, the Eastern and Western, have been displaced by recent 
improvements, and the many burying- pi aces immediately surrounding the churches have 
had for the most part the dead removed from them, 

GEORGETOWN is separated from Washington by Rock creek, and lies north- 
west of the city. Horse rail-cars enter Georgetown by both the Penn. ave. and P sL 
routes. It was a town of some importance at the time the Federal City was located. 
Population in 1880, 12,578. 

Georgetoivn Heights presents admirable building sites, and is occupied by beautif\il 
residences, many of them of a palatial character. 

Oak-Hill Cemetery (originally 10 acres) is situated on the Heights, and for beauty of 
situation, exquisite taste in adornment, and general management, challenges comparison 
with any cemetery in the world. It has been gradually enlarged, and was originally the 
gift of Mr. W. W. Corcoran. It now embraces 30 acres. Secretary Stanton, Chief- 
Justice Chase, and many other distinguished dead, are buried here. 
•^Georgetown High-tervice Reservgir, with a capacity of i,ooo,ooo gallons, is an object 



6o loose's Companion and Guide 

of interest. It is at the head of Market st.j the surface water is 215 feet above tide, and 
70 feet above the Distributing Reservoir. 

Tie Con-vent of the F'tsitatiottf founded in 1799, is an institution of note. In the 
Convent vault a daughter of Gen. Scott is buried. She was a religieuse of the order. 
The Academy under the care of the Sisters of the Visitation was founded at the same 
time. In 1873 an addition was made to the establishment. The Academy grounds 
include 30 acres. 

Georgetoion College^ founded in 1 789, raised to a university in 18 1 5, is probably the 
oldest Roman Catholic college in the country. It is under the care of the Fathers of 
the Society of Jesus. The library contains many rare works and some valuable manu- 
scripts J and in the Museum are coins and medals, with interesting relics of Commodore 
Decatur. 

A new building, forming a frontage to the original main building, and which of itself 
would constitute one of the finest collegiate edifices in America, designed by Smithmeyer, 
has greatly increased its educational capacity. 

The Linthicum Institute and the Peabody Library are accommodated in the Public- 
School building on ad and Potomac sts., three stories, basement, and mansard, and cost 
$70,000; built 1875. 

Edward Linthicum, a retired hardware merchant, left by will $50,000 for the education 
of poor white boys. George Peabody, the world-renowned millionaire philanthropist, 
(and once a resident of Georgetown,) funded $22,000 to institute the Peabody Library, 
A Home for Aged Women is also a thoughtful and beautiful charity of this town. 
ALEXANDRIA is 6 miles distant from Washington. Boats ply every hour dur- 
ing daytime between the two cities, and there is also hourly railroad communication. 
The city was founded in 1748, then called Bellhaven, the beautiful harbor. 

Chriit Church is an Episcopal church in Alexandria, over a hundred years old, (1773,) 
which General Washington used to attend. His pew is pointed out to strangers. 
A National Cemetery is near Alexandria, containing the graves of 4,000 soldiers. 
MOUNT VERNON, the home and tomb of Washington, is about sixteen miles 
down the Potomac from the Federal city. A boat starts daily, excepting on Sunday, from 
7th St. wharf, at 10 A. M., for iMount Vernon; returning, it reaches Washington about 
3.30 P. M., thus allowing excursionists ample time to explore the house and grounds. 

The scenery between Washington and Mount Vernon is not only beautiful, but re- 
plete with interesting national associations. A fine view is obtained of Arlington House^ 
on the Virginia shore. Opposite it is the Washington Monument. 

Then the receding city passes away like a panoramic view, succeeded by the 
Arsenal and grounds, the Insane Asylum, and the Navy Yard, while, grandly crowning 
all, is the Capitol with its graceful dome. 

Alexandria is soon reached. [See Alexandria,] 

Fort Footf an important earthwork during the late war, is next approached. Again 
the boat stops a moment at old Fort Washington. Both forts are on the Maryland shore. 
The last was built in part by Major L'Enfant. Opposite this fort, on high ground, is 
Mount Vernon House. 

The mansion fronts the river. The centre was built by Lawrence Washington, half- 
brother of the President, from whom he inherited the estate. The more modern por- 
tions were added by the General. 

The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association own the mansion and contiguous grounds. 
Their endeavor is to restore them, as nearly as possible, to the condition they were in 
during the life of their great owner. 

The boHt lands at a little wharf reaching far out in the river, belonging to the estat^. 



to Was/iin,gt0n and Vkmiij^ 




62 



Roosts Companion and Guide 




A walk horn. 
this wharf leads 
to the Tomb. 

The front of 
the vault is open, 
defended by an 
open iron gate- 
w a y , through 
which the sarco- 
phagus contain- 
ing the remains 
of Washington 
can be plainly 
teen. There is 
also another sar- 
cophagus, con- 
taining the re- 
mains of Mar- 
tha, the consort Washington's tomb. *■ 
of Washington. A number of family graves surround the tomb. 

ARLINGTON. Arlington House is situated on Arlington Heights, in Virginia, 
on the south side of the Potomac, in plain view of the Capitol. The late war and inci- 
dents connected 
with it have 
made this a place 
of historic inter- 
est. Over fifteen 
thousand of the 
Union dead lie 
interred around 
the former beau- 
tiful home of 
the great grand- 
daught'r of Mar- 
tha Washington, 
who became the 
wife of the Con- 
federate chief- 
tain. Gen. Robt. 
E. Lee. The 
estate embraced 

about one thou- Arlington hovsb. 

sand one hundred acres, two hundred of which have been set apart as a National Cemetery. 

^A very prevalent mistake, reiterated by irresponsible newspaper correspondents, and copied 
into several of the Washington Cuide-books, it is our duty to correct. It is very positively 
asserted that in 1863 this estate w*c " sold under the confiscation act, and in 1864 was taken 
possession of by the National Govenaiicnt." The facts are that the Arlington property was 
sold at a tax sale, January 11, 1864, and was never confiscated. It was never the property of 
General Lee. and only a life interest in the property was devised to Mrs. Lee, by her father, 
George Washington Parke Custis. The value of the estate, as recorded in the land book of the 
State, was ^4,100. The amount which it was sold for at the tax sale was ^26,800.^ Arlington 
House vas built by Mr. George Washington Parke Custis. It is imposing in aippearance, and 




to Washington and Vicinity, 



63 




$4 



Roosts Companibft and Gufdt, 



.*i? ^°'.*8:e of 140 feet. The portico is 60 feet long and 25 feet deep, and is oraamented with 
eight Done columns, built of brick, plastered. It was long regarded as one of the palatial 
homes of the South. The situation of the mansion is fine, and the view from the portico exten- 
sive, and for beauty can scarcely be excelled. 

The cemetery lying west of the house is devoted to white and that lying north to 
colored dead soldiers. South of the house is the « Unknown Tomb," in which are 
placed the remains of 2,111 unknown soldiers gathered from the battle-fields of Bull 
Run and the route to the Rappahannock. Near this tomb is an amphitheatre, erected 
in 1873, designed for use on Decoration Day, capable of accommodating 5,000 persons. 

In regard to this estate, it has been very currently reported that it was bequeathed by 
Gen. Washington to Mr. Custis, his adopted son. The truth is Mr. Custis inherited it 
from his father, John Parke Custis, and Gen. Washington never owned it. The founder 
of the American family of Custis was an emigrant inn-keeper, formerly of Rotterdam, 
Holland, who, about 1668, married the daughter of Edmund Scarburgh, prominent in 
early Colonial times as surveyor-general of the State and a representative of Accomac 
county, Va. The marriage with this lady gave him immense landed possessions. 

FORT MYER is situated a short distance northwest from Arlington House. " It 
is the only one of the many forts built near Washington during the late war that has not 
keen dismantled. It is now used as a cavalry station. 

Proposed Lincoln Monument, It has been proposed to erect a monument of great ele- 
gance and superior workmanship in front of the Capitol to commemorate the history of 
the Martyr President. An engraving in this volume represents the model, by the artist, 
Clarke Mills, presented to the committee in charge of the object. '^ Whether it will 
eventually be placed there remains with the American people to determine. God speed 
the right I 




NATIONAI, MUSEUM, (ANNEX TO SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION.) 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




